Mary Chesney | Gerontology Research Group

Full name: Mary Chesney (née Manion)
Lifespan: (03.08.1912 – present)
Age: 112 years
Birthplace: Randolph County, Missouri, USA
Last residence: Moberly, Randolph County, Missouri, USA
Application date: 03.08.2022
Validation date: 30.06.2023
Validation source: Waclaw Jan Kroczek/Oliver Trim

Biography

Mary Chesney, born on 3 August 1912, in Randolph County, Missouri, USA, has traversed a century marked by resilience, simplicity, and a joyous spirit. Her journey began on a farm in Clifton Hill, Missouri, where she, along with her older siblings Elizabeth and Finnell, experienced the rustic beauty of rural life. In the absence of school buses, young Mary rode horses six miles every day to attend school—a testament to the determination ingrained in her from an early age.

On March 15, 1933, Mary embarked on a lifelong partnership with Wallace Chesney, a union that spanned over six decades. From Kansas City to Moberly in the 1970s, the couple shared a life rich in experiences, devoid of children but brimming with love. Wallace’s passing in April 1996 marked the end of a 64-year marriage.

Mary’s zest for life extended beyond the roles of a wife. An avid card player and skilled seamstress, she remained independent, driving until the age of 102 and living on her own until 104. Celebrating her 110th birthday in August 2022, Mary’s philosophy on longevity was as simple as her approach to life: “I don’t have a secret. It just happened!”

Her niece, Shirley Smith, attested to Mary’s carefree spirit, emphasizing that she never worried about things. Described by nursing home staff as a person full of joy, Mary maintained her ability to walk with the assistance of a walker as of her 110th birthday.

Following the passing of Velma Hinds on June 8, 2023, Mary Chesney assumed the title of the oldest known living person in Missouri. Her age, meticulously verified by Waclaw Jan Kroczek and Oliver Trim, was officially validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) on June 30, 2023.

At age 111, Mary Chesney continued her journey at Meadow Ridge Senior Living in Moberly, Missouri, leaving an indelible mark through a life imbued with simplicity, resilience, and boundless joy.

Longevity Recognition

Oldest living person in Missouri (08.06.2023 – present)

Validation

The age of Mary Chesney was meticulously examined and verified by Wacław Jan Kroczek and Oliver Trim, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) as of June 30, 2023.

Mary Chesney at age 109.

Mary Chesney at age 109.

Mary Chesney on her 111th birthday.

Photo courtesy of Moberly Monitor-Index, and Meadow Ridge Senior Living.