Ireland’s oldest man Paddy Claffey (104) owes his long life to his wife’s baking, never drinking alcohol and giving up smoking at 45. Video: Bryan O'BrienIreland’s oldest man, Paddy Claffey, attributes his longevity to hard work and a good appetite. On St Patrick’s Day, Paddy will be the grand marshall of the parade in Clara, Co Offaly. Born on April 17th, 1921, in his “home house” in the townland of Noggusboy near Ferbane in Co Offaly, Paddy was the youngest of 10 children, with six sisters and three brothers. That story illustrates his father’s kindness says Paddy’s son Patrick, who stays with Paddy most weekends.

Source: The Irish Times March 09, 2026 15:01 UTC