Jeralean Talley, the record-holder for world's oldest known living person, turns 116, Saturday.
The Detroit resident, born May 23, 1899, received $116 from the government for one dollar for every year. At an event attended by US Representative John Conyers, Talley expressed her gratitude saying ""I thank you very, very, very, very much," Huffington reports.
Happy 116th Birthday to Instker's Jeralean Talley, the World's oldest person! pic.twitter.com/haYKX3Oa7P
— John Conyers (@repjohnconyers) May 21, 2015
NBC released President Barack Obama's letter to Talley, saying, "The breadth of your experiences and depth of your wisdom reflect the long path our Nation has traveled since 1899. During this time, there have been setbacks and breakthroughs, false starts and improbable victories, and through it all our country's spirit has endured - strengthened and enriched by each generation."
Talley was married to her husband Alfred until his death in 1988. They have one daughter, Thelma Holloway, three grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchlidren.
Thelma, who was born in 1937, said her mother sewed dresses and quilts, and played in casinos. Talley also played bowling until she was 104.
Her daughter also added in 2013 that she still went fishing, catching 7 catfish at 114.
Known as "Mother Talley" in church, Jeralean is a firm believer of the golden rule. "Her No. 1 rule is to treat people how you want to be treated," said her 21-year-old godson, Tyler Kinloch, who went fishing with her.
Talley also celebrated her birthday at their church, New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist. They officially named the church drive-way after her during her 114th birthday in 2013.
When asked about her secret to living more than 100 years, New York Daily News reported Talley gives it back to the Lord. "It's the Lord. Everything is in his hands."
She also never smoked and drank alcohol. Her only surgery was just having her tonsils removed.
Talley's world record was announced following the death of the previous holder, 117-year-old Gertrude Weaver, in April.
