Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, the Venezuelan man recognized as the world’s oldest living man, has died at the age of 114, just weeks before what would have been his 115th birthday, Venezuelan officials and international record‑keeping authorities confirmed.
Pérez, born on May 27, 1909, in the small farming community of El Cobre in Táchira state, passed away on April 2, 2024, at his home in San José de Bolívar. His remarkable life spanned three centuries, during which he lived through countless historical events, from the Great Depression and two world wars to the rise of modern technology
Guinness World Records had officially recognized Pérez as the world’s oldest living man on February 4, 2022, when he was 112 years and 253 days old, following the death of Spain’s Saturnino de la Fuente García. He held the title until his passing.
Local authorities, including Freddy Bernal, governor of Táchira, described Pérez as an embodiment of humility, hard work, family devotion, and tradition. President Nicolás Maduro also paid tribute, calling him a symbol of wisdom and longevity whose life brought pride to the nation.
Pérez credited his long life to a combination of simple habits, faith, and routine. He often spoke of the importance of working steadily, resting well, going to bed early, maintaining a positive outlook, and regular prayer. Some reports also mentioned he enjoyed a daily glass of aguardiente, a traditional Venezuelan liquor.
He leaves behind a large extended family, including eleven children, dozens of grandchildren, and many great‑ and great‑great‑grandchildren, many of whom gathered with friends, community members, and dignitaries to celebrate his life and legacy.
