Edna Kiely, the oldest known living person in the U.S. state of New Hampshire, dies at 111
The Gerontology Research Group (GRG) is sadden to reported that Mrs. Edna Kiely (née Serpeski), the oldest known living person in the U.S. state of New Hampshire, sadly passed away in Nashua on 4 November 2026 at the final age of 111 years and 46 days.
Edna Kiely was born as Edna Serpeski in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA, on 19 September 1915. She was the daughter of the late Jack and Stella Serpeski, both Polish immigrants.
Edna spent her early childhood in Nashua before moving to Pepperell, Massachusetts, where she made her home for the remainder of her remarkable life. She was a longtime communicant of Our Lady of Grace Church in Pepperell.
Edna was employed as a cook for the North Middlesex Regional School District for nearly 30 years, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. She was also a talented and accomplished seamstress, a skill she practiced for nearly 90 years. Her exceptional sewing skills made her well known throughout the Pepperell community, where she served generations of local families.
Edna especially enjoyed trips to the casino with her dear friend, Mrs. Gill, often traveling aboard the Senior Center bus. Edna looked forward to the delicious buffet meals, the excitement of the games, and, much to her delight, her frequent winnings. These outings brought her great happiness and many cherished memories.
In her later years, she moved back to her hometown in Nashua at some point of her life.
On 21 May 2024, following the death of 110-year-old Marita Gould of Hillsborough County, Edna became the oldest known living person in the U.S. state of New Hampshire.
On 19 September 2025, Edna celebrated her 110th birthday, becoming a supercentenarian.
Edna Kiely passed away at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA, on 4 November 2026, at the age of 111 years and 46 days. She was survived by her son, John Kiely, and his wife, Elene, along with several cousins and many dear friends, primarily from the Pepperell area. In addition to her husband, John, she was predeceased by her daughter, Linda, her parents, and her five brothers, four of whom served their country in the United States military during World War II and the Korean War.
Following Edna’s death, then 109-year-old Richard “Dick” Durette (born 13 February 1917) of Dover became the oldest known living person in the U.S. state of New Hampshire.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mrs. Edna Kiely during this difficult time.