A soft-spoken yet resolute 112-year-old woman from Long Island has officially become the Guinness World Records title holder for the oldest nun living, after dedicating more than 94 years of her life to the Catholic Church.
Sister Francis Dominici Piscatella, born in Central Islip on April 20, 1913, was confirmed as the record holder in July 2025. Her incredible age and decades of service have earned her the title, which was previously held by a Brazilian nun, Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, who passed away in April 2025.
Having witnessed nine popes, 20 U.S. presidents, and two world wars, Sister Francis Dominici’s life is a testament to faith and perseverance. Her journey was marked by early adversity; at just two years old, she lost her left forearm in a train accident. Despite being turned away by several convents who doubted her ability to serve, she was accepted into the Dominican order in 1931 at the age of 17.
Her life of service was largely defined by teaching. She worked as an educator until she was 84, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. Today, she resides at the Queen of the Rosary Motherhouse in Amityville.
When asked the secret to her longevity, Sister Francis Dominici, who celebrated her 112th birthday on Easter Sunday, offered a simple yet profound four-word piece of advice: “Teach until you die.”
