Cearense João Marinho Neto celebrates 113 years as the world’s oldest man Por Luís Henrique Costa
3 min de leitura
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Cearense João Marinho Neto, recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest living man, turned 113 on October 5, 2025, in Apuiarés, a rural town in Ceará. The title was granted in November 2024, following the death of Briton John Tinniswood at 112 years old. The celebration took place with family members, reinforcing his verified longevity.
Born in Maranguape, Ceará, in 1912, João Marinho Neto is the last surviving man from that year. He currently resides in a nursing home in rural Apuiarés.
- Large family: six living children, 22 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
- Early work: helped his father with farming tasks from age four, tending livestock and harvesting fruits.
Rural origins and hard work
João Marinho Neto grew up in a farming family in Ceará. From a young age, he joined in farm tasks, shaping his daily routine.
By age four, he was already harvesting juazeiro fruits and managing livestock. This work continued throughout his life, contributing to his financial stability.
Extensive family legacy
João Marinho Neto married Josefa Albano dos Santos, who passed away in 1994. Together, they had four children: Antônio, José, Fátima, and Vanda.
Later, he partnered with Antonia Rodrigues Moura, with whom he had three more children: Vinícius, Jarbas, and Conceição. His family grew to include multiple generations.
The patriarch accumulated assets like land and houses through corn and bean farming. He also raised goats, pigs, and chickens at Fazenda Massapê.
Daily life and longevity secrets
João Marinho Neto’s routine revolved around constant farm work. He cultivated staple crops and managed various livestock.
In interviews, he noted that surrounding himself with good people keeps bonds strong. This family closeness supports his current health.
Recently, he sent a congratulatory message to the world’s oldest woman, Ethel Caterham, for her 116th birthday in August 2025. The gesture marked the first documented exchange between the holders of the age record titles.
Current life in Apuiarés
João Marinho Neto resides in a nursing home in Apuiarés, a town of about 13,000 residents that preserves rural traditions.
He receives regular care and maintains contact with descendants. The family organizes frequent visits to nurture their bonds.
Guinness World Records validated his age through documents and LongeviQuest research. This organization tracks supercentenarians globally.
Contributions to Brazilian records
At 113, João Marinho Neto holds the title of Brazil’s oldest verified man. The Gerontology Research Group confirmed this after dismissing earlier claims.
He surpassed cases like Maximiano José dos Santos, who died in 2006. Pending claims involve other Brazilians, such as Anísio Rodrigues Alves.
João’s longevity highlights rural Northeast lifestyle patterns. His simple habits contrast with global life expectancy averages.
