Meet the Amazing Anna: Florida's Oldest Living Person

Anna of American House Fort Myers was born in southern Italy over 112 years ago. She is the oldest living person in Florida and the 14th oldest in America. You would probably never guess that if you met her in person. Anna looks at least thirty years younger and is as sharp as anyone in the room.

She grew up with four sisters and one brother. Her father worked in the vineyards of Italy while her mother took care of the kids. The family didn’t have much money, but they were happy and close. Anna left for America at the age of 13 with her sister. Her family couldn’t afford for to all go to the U.S. at the same time, so they went two at a time. Anna and her sister arrived at Ellis Island in New York City in 1926. A few years ago, Anna’s family took her back to Ellis Island, where she saw her handwritten name from all those years ago.

Anna and her family eventually settled in Millburn, New Jersey. She couldn’t read or write English, but she got her hands on a dictionary and taught herself. Anna went to work in a factory to help her family, learning to work a sewing machine. She fell in love with a smart man who graduated from college and worked for the United States government. The happy couple had two daughters who attended school in New Jersey. One of Anna’s daughters also lives in American House Fort Myers.

When asked her secret to living a long and healthy life, Anna points skywards and says, The Good Lord. As a devout Catholic, Anna claims her longevity has nothing to do with her. All her good fortune comes from above.

Daisy Godbee, Life Enrichment Director at American House Fort Myers, is one of Anna’s biggest fans. “Anna’s amazing,” she said. “She’s so wonderful and kind. Everyone is in awe of her. Anna is our precious gem here at American House.”

Anna has lived at American House for three years. She loves the people, the staff and the food, especially the grilled cheese sandwich. Life is good, Anna said, with a smile 112 years young.

Being a supercentenarian is pretty exciting news and Anna’s birthday was covered by several area media outlets and picked up online!

We all have a story. A story that taught us something, changed us and helped define who we are. At American House, your next chapter is waiting to be written. We’re here to help you write it. Your way.