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Ir\u00e9nise Moulonguet, who turned 112 in November 2012, is thought to be the oldest living French citizen. She is well-known as one of Jehovah\u2019s Witnesses.<\/p>\n
Until recently, Maria Richard\u2014another centenarian who lived in France\u2014was thought to be the oldest living French person. But in fact, she was 22 days younger than Ir\u00e9nise. Maria Richard, who died last October at nearly 112, was also one of Jehovah\u2019s Witnesses.<\/p>\n
Ir\u00e9nise has not always had an easy life. When she was just two years old, she survived the eruption of Mount Pel\u00e9e, situated near her native village in Martinique. At the age of 15, Ir\u00e9nise moved to French Guiana and found work in order to provide financial support for her family back home. When she returned to Martinique years later, she got married and started a family. Sadly, her husband, Andr\u00e9, died when he was still young, leaving her to raise three daughters alone.<\/p>\n
To support herself and her children, Ir\u00e9nise worked on banana plantations. One of her former workmates, who is now in his 80\u2019s, still remembers her hardworking spirit. He says: \u201cShe was capable of preparing over 175 hefty clusters of bananas for shipment in just one day!\u201d<\/p>\n
Though life has sometimes been hard, Ir\u00e9nise has always kept a positive outlook. One of her 75 descendants described her as \u201cvery humorous, witty, and always ready to share fond memories.\u201d Such a description characterizes many old-timers.<\/p>\n
Although genetic factors may contribute to a long life, lifestyle and optimism seem to be important as well. When asked about their longevity, many centenarians say that they stick to a steady routine, eat moderately, and maintain their zest for life. One study concludes: \u201cThey appear to be very active and dynamic people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Contrary to popular belief, long-lived individuals did not necessarily have an easy life. One extensive study in France showed that most centenarians appear to be survivors, \u201crobust individuals who have triumphed over the hardships they have faced.\u201d<\/p>\n
That is certainly true of Ir\u00e9nise, who has endured her share of adversity. One of her grandsons often speaks with admiration of her positive attitude. He says: \u201cAlthough her ability to move is severely limited now, she never complains.\u201d<\/p>\n
A Roman Catholic by birth, Ir\u00e9nise had many questions about God and the brevity of life. She found satisfying answers by studying the Bible with Jehovah\u2019s Witnesses. At age 74, she dedicated her life to Jehovah God. When asked what helps her to cope with aging and health problems, she often says: \u201cJehovah is my strength. He is my \u2018strong arm.\u2019 That\u2019s why I feel \u2018renewed from day to day\u2019!\u201d\u2014Deuteronomy 3:24;<\/a>2\u00a0Corinthians 4:16<\/a>.<\/p>\n