A remarkable achievement was accomplished by six sisters who now hold the world record for the highest combined age among siblings.
The sisters, hailing from Farmington, MO, span a wide range of ages, from 88 to 101. It’s truly wonderful that all six of them are still able to spend time together. In March 2024, the total of their ages adds up to approximately 571 years.
Meet the incredible six sisters: Norma Jacob, 101, Lorene Kollmeyer, 98, Maxine Cole, 97, Doris Griffith, 94, Margaret Norton, 90, and Elma Jennings, 88. There are currently four of them residing in Farmington, with one sister living in Columbia, MO, and another in Marion, OH. Even though their last names have changed, they all belonged to the same family, the Overalls. Their older brother, Stanley, died more than two decades ago.
They were reviewed by the Guinness Book of World Records for this special recognition. The inspiration to submit an application originated from one of their nephews, Dean, who happens to be Norma’s son. “He just decided that sounded like we might be, you know, eligible.” Maxine shared with GMA how they started their journey.
Getting the 6 sisters certified for the world record proved to be a more complex process than just submitting birth certificates or presenting their IDs. They had to submit a multitude of documents, including photographs, birth certificates, marriage certificates, school records, and more.
It’s remarkable how all the sisters share a special bond, despite living in different locations. Their birthdays falling in July adds an extra touch of uniqueness to their close relationship. The sisters have also gone on trips together in the past and gather every summer to celebrate with a picnic.
“We were all brought up in the church. We belong to the First Baptist Church here in Farmington, and our mother and dad took us to Sunday school in church [growing up],” Maxine shared. “They have instilled in us the importance of practicing the Golden Rule, treating others with kindness, and fostering love among each other. And, in fact, in our everyday experiences, we have made an effort to accomplish just that. It’s been truly amazing how everything unfolded for us. We were fortunate to have incredible parents.”
The sisters seem to have a great bond and get along wonderfully. However, as reported by Fox 2 St.Louis, there is one topic that sparks a lively debate among them: who makes the best pie crust? I wonder if the family has a lot of taste tests to figure that out?
Congratulations to this incredible family of 6 sisters who have achieved a remarkable world record. May they continue to cherish their bond and the beautiful families they have built over the years.