Holocaust Survivor Rose Girone Dies at 113: ‘a Strong Lady, Resilient’

Holocaust Survivor Rose Girone, Believed to Be World’s Oldest Survivor, Passes Away at 113

Rose Girone, a Holocaust survivor who was believed to be the world’s oldest survivor, has passed away at the age of 113. Girone died on Monday, Feb. 24, due to old age, as confirmed by her daughter Reha Bennicasa to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. She had recently celebrated her birthday in January. While the Claims Conference believes Girone was the oldest survivor, PEOPLE was not able to independently verify this claim.

Born in Janov, Poland, in 1912, Girone’s family later settled in Hamburg, Germany, where they operated a theatrical costume shop. In 1938, Girone married Julius Mannheim in an arranged marriage, and they moved to Breslau, Germany, just as the Nazis initiated Kristallnacht, leading to widespread violence against Jews in Germany. Mannheim was arrested and sent to Buchenwald concentration camp when Girone was eight months pregnant in 1939. After obtaining visas, Mannheim was released, and the family fled to Shanghai.

While in Shanghai, Girone took up knitting, a skill that would later prove helpful when the family immigrated to the United States in 1947. Setting up knitting stores in Queens, Girone continued knitting until she was nearly 102 years old, as reported by Fox 5 New York. After divorcing Mannheim in 1968, she married Jack Girone and lived independently in Queens until her family arranged for in-home care when she turned 103. At 109, she moved to a rehabilitation center.

In a statement to the Long Island Herald, Girone shared her secret to a long life, saying, “Live every day with a purpose, have amazing children, and eat lots of dark chocolate.” Her daughter Bennicasa described Girone as a resilient and strong lady who made the best of difficult situations. She highlighted her mother’s level-headedness, problem-solving skills, and unwavering support throughout her life.

Reflecting on her mother’s life, Bennicasa shared, “She was just a terrific lady… and I don’t know, when God made her, they broke the mold.” Girone’s positive outlook, determination, and love for her family left a lasting impact on those around her. Her resilience and strength continue to inspire others to overcome challenges and find joy in everyday moments.

Rose Girone’s remarkable journey as a Holocaust survivor and her longevity serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Her legacy will live on through the memories of those who knew her and the stories she shared. As we remember Rose Girone, may her strength and positivity continue to inspire generations to come.

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