New York City’s Oldest Woman Continues to Shine at 113

New York City’s oldest resident, Louise Jean Signore, is still finding joy in life months after celebrating her 113th birthday.

Born in 1912, she recently visited the Bartow Center near her Co-op City Apartments in the Bronx, where she enjoyed music, reminiscent of her past.

Her close friend Frances Perkins noted, “She always loved to dance. When music plays, she starts tapping her feet.”

Perkins also mentioned that although Louise has slowed down a bit, she still volunteers to attend musical events at the Bartow Center, keeping her spirit alive.

Louise marked her 113th birthday in July, making her the third oldest living American.

According to longeviquest.com, she trails behind Naomi Whitehead, 115, from Pennsylvania, and Bonita Gibson, 114, from Michigan.

The title of the oldest living person goes to Ethel Caterham from England, who recently turned 116.

Louise was honored on her birthday with a plaque in the Coop City gardens, where she celebrated with cake and her beloved Italian dish of tongue and pasta, surrounded by family and friends.

Perkins, who has been friends with Louise since she was 97, shared, “She’s a dear friend. I want her to find peace and happiness in the years ahead.”

Louise’s birth came just months after the Titanic sank. She experienced significant events like World War I at the age of two and moved to the Bronx at twelve, just before the Great Depression struck.

During World War II, when she was 29, she watched her brothers serve and return safely. She was 44 when Elvis Presley made his iconic debut on television and 57 for the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Having worked for the MTA for 39 years, Louise has often shared her secret to longevity: she attributes it to never marrying or having children, and always listening to her body’s needs.

“I have a routine. I do things at the same time each day. A nap at 8 o’clock doesn’t change anything for me,” she explained. “I do what feels right for my body, and it works.”