New York City mourns the loss of its oldest resident, Louise Jean Signore, who passed away at the age of 113. Born in Harlem in 1912, Signore was a cherished figure in the community, often credited with her remarkable longevity to a combination of lifestyle choices, including her love for Italian cuisine and her decision to remain single throughout her life.
Born just months after the sinking of the Titanic, Signore witnessed a century of history, including two World Wars, the Great Depression, and the September 11 attacks. She spent 39 years working as an administrative assistant for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), gaining recognition not only for her work ethic but also for her candid advice to those seeking a long life.
A Life of Vibrancy and Activity
In an interview on her 112th birthday, Signore attributed her health to “staying single,” “eating Italian food,” and “staying active.” Friends noted that just a month before her passing, she was lively enough to be found dancing, or at least tapping her feet, at the Bartow Center in the Bronx. “She loved to dance, and when she heard the music, she began tapping her feet,” said Frances Perkins, a close friend and neighbor. “She used to hang out, play bingo, and do line dancing,” Perkins added.
Despite slowing down in her later years, Signore remained engaged with her community and maintained an active lifestyle. She played bocce, swam, and even went biking after her retirement from the MTA. “It’s my body. Nobody tells me what to do. I do what I think is best. It works,” she confidently stated in past interviews.
Health Secrets and Family Legacy
Signore often highlighted her Mediterranean upbringing as a key factor in her good health. “I was brought up with very good food. Italian food is very good for you,” she once explained. Her meals included salads, fruits, and vegetables every night, along with wine on the table. She emphasized moderation in sweets, recalling that treats like cake and soda were reserved for Sundays.
Her family history also suggested a genetic predisposition to longevity. Signore’s mother lived to be 97, and her siblings also reached impressive ages, with her younger sister passing away around 2020 at 102 or 103.
Over the years, Signore became a beloved local celebrity, frequently featured on major New York news outlets. She openly credited her long life to her lifestyle choices, including abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes, and maintaining a positive, adventurous outlook. “That’s why I am living. That’s why I am OK because I didn’t get married… no marriage, no children. I’d rather be single,” she asserted in a previous interview.
Signore’s life was not without its challenges. At the age of 103, she survived a home invasion but remained unfazed by the incident, stating she forgave the intruder and returned to her routine shortly afterward.
As a testament to her vibrant spirit, hundreds of friends and supporters often gathered to celebrate her birthdays, with her 113th birthday marked by a special plaque honoring her legacy in her building complex.
Louise Jean Signore’s remarkable journey from a child during World War I to a centenarian who inspired many will be remembered fondly. Her stories and insights about life, health, and happiness will continue to resonate throughout New York City.
