Yvonne Francier, Belgium’s Oldest Resident, Dies at 112 in Corsica
Belgium has lost a remarkable figure as Yvonne Francier, the nation’s oldest resident and “dean of the Belgians,” passed away Tuesday in Corsica, France, at the age of 112. The news was confirmed by the Belga news agency, citing Anthony Croes-Lacroix, the Belgian correspondent for the European Supercenarian organization (ESO).
Francier,born on February 28,1913,in Anderlecht,Belgium,lived through over a century of historical change,witnessing two World Wars and significant social and political shifts. She relocated from Belgium following the death of her husband in 1970, seeking a quieter life in Corsica. At the time of her death, Francier was 112 years and 186 days old, sharing the Belgian record for longevity with Joanna Turcksin, who passed away on December 6, 2002.
yvonne francier’s life spanned three centuries – the 20th, 21st, and a portion of the 19th, as she was born in 1913. Her passing marks the end of a direct link to a very different era.
A Legacy of Longevity
francier’s passing shifts the title of “dean of the Belgians” to Maria Elisabeth Dionysia (Denise) Waelbers, age 109, born September 26, 1915, in Lommel and currently residing in Mortsel. The title recognizes the oldest person living within the country.
Currently, the oldest living Belgian is Alfons Declerck, age 108, born on May 27, 1917, in Bristol, United kingdom. Declerck’s birth occured during World War I, adding another layer of historical context to Belgium’s aging population.
The European Supercenarian Organization (ESO) validates ages of people aged 110 and over, ensuring accuracy in longevity records. Their work helps document remarkable lives.
The passing of Yvonne Francier marks the end of an era and serves as a poignant reminder of a life lived through remarkable times. Her legacy of longevity will undoubtedly be remembered in Belgium for years to come.
What aspects of Yvonne Francier’s life do you think contributed to her extraordinary longevity? Share your thoughts on the factors influencing a long life.
