Gerontology Research Group visits Marie-Rose Tessier before her 115th birthday

The Gerontology Research Group, the oldest and largest institute specializing in extreme longevity tracking, represented by Mon. Sylvain Grosgeorge, GRG Correspondent for France and Andorra, and Dr. Waclaw Jan Kroczek, GRG Correspondent for Poland and Nordic Countries, had the honor of visiting Marie-Rose Tessier in Chateau d’Olonne, the oldest living person in France, who celebrates her 115th birthday today. She is the sixth person in the history of France to have eclipsed the lifespan of 115 years, joining the most elite group of Great Supercentenarians.

With warmth, grace, and a bright spirit, Madame Tessier welcomed us and shared moments from a life that began in 1910 — a true living witness to over a century of history. Her strength and serenity are a moving reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. We are deeply grateful for this meaningful encounter and inspired by her remarkable journey through time.

Marie-Rose Tessier’s age was verified by Sylvain Grosgeorge, GRG-France Correspondent, and validated by the GRG on 15 June 2023.

Biography

Marie-Rose Tessier, born as Marie-Rose Bousseau on 21 May 1910, grew up on a farm in Beaurepaire, Vendee, Pays de la Loire, France. On 14 November 1927, she married Auguste Tessier in Ardelay, now known as Les Herbiers, Vendee. Unfortunately, she became a widow in 1944.

In April 2018, Marie-Rose Tessier had the opportunity to engage in a meeting with students from the Ecole St. Paul School in Chateau-d’Olonne. During this gathering, she shared her memories of World War I alongside other elderly individuals. In May 2020, she celebrated her 110th birthday, marking a significant milestone in her life.

After the passing of Marie-Florentine Jousseaume on December 20, 2020, Marie-Rose Tessier assumed the title of the oldest known living person in the Vendee department. Subsequently, she became the oldest known living person in the broader region of Pays de la Loire, following the death of Marie-Louise Berthelot on January 17, 2021.

With the passing of 111-year-old Madeleine Cornu on May 19, 2022, Tessier earned the distinction of being the last known surviving French woman born in 1910. Furthermore, following the death of 111-year-old Andre Boite on July 15, 2022, she became the last known surviving French person born in 1910.

Subsequently, after the demise of Juliette Bilde on December 13, 2022, Tessier, along with Lucile Randon, held the status of the last two surviving French individuals born before 1911. However, Tessier later became the last known surviving French person born before 1911 and also the oldest known living person in France, following Lucile Randon’s passing on January 17, 2023.