Oldest U.S. Citizen Elizabeth Francis Dies at 115

Elizabeth Francis, a celebrated supercentenarian known as the 'Queen Elizabeth of Houston', passed away at the age of 115, making her the oldest living person in the United States and the third oldest in the world. Born in Louisiana in 1909, Francis lived through significant historical events such as two world wars and the civil rights movement. She attributed her longevity to her faith, speaking her mind, and enjoying a varied diet, while she notably refrained from smoking or drinking. Francis was a single mother and ran a coffee shop in Houston for nearly 20 years. She was admired for her strong family and community connections, with her longevity celebrated by figures such as Barack Obama. Her death marks the end of an era, with Naomi Whitehead, 114, now recognized as the oldest living person in the U.S.