Shortly before 6 am yesterday, Matilda Lewis, 113, passed away, one of the oldest persons in the world.

Matilda Lewis

Her birthday was documented as May 16, 1896. Earlier this year, surrounded by well-wishers, her birthday was celebrated at the Salvation Army Women’s Home where she had been living since 1988. “She was a dear old soul. I would miss her very, very much”, said Edith King. King said that she has been looking after Lewis at the Women’s home for years now and they were friends.

King told Stabroek News last evening that Lewis was doing well last week though she had flu. “She was still talking, she was doing everything”, she recalled.  She recounted that on Saturday, a doctor pronounced Lewis fine and she was just feeling her age. On Sunday, Lewis was talking too but on Monday, hardly said anything.

King related that at about 5 am yesterday, she checked on Lewis and she was breathing though “heavily”. When she returned 45 minutes later, “she was gone…quiet, quiet”.

Speaking to reporters, back in 2008 Lewis had said that the key to her longevity was not being married nor having any children.  She had encouraged young people to place their trust in God and live decent lives.

Lewis’ funeral will be held today at 3 pm at the St. Andrews Kirk.