Last surviving sibling of world’s oldest mixed triplets dies at age 96

By Vicki Newman
Published
betty woolf and siblings close up

Guinness World Records is saddened to learn that Betty Woolf, the last remaining sibling of the oldest living triplets (mixed) has died at the age of 96.

Betty set the record along with her sister Minna Passman and her brother Joseph Hocky in 2020 when they were aged 93 years 174 days.

The triplets were born in New York City in 1927, and although they moved to different coasts later in life, they always got together to celebrate their joint birthday.

Of course, they became local celebrities thanks to their record, which their loved ones say they were very proud to have earned together. The siblings were also featured on TV and in newspapers when they marked their 90th birthday in 2017.

Betty and her siblings pose for a family photo

Minna passed away in August 2021 at the age of 94, and Joseph passed away in January of this year at the age of 95.

Betty’s daughter Nancy said in tribute: “My mom, Betty, loved her siblings and they were all thrilled to be included in the Guinness World Records book. Betty lived a long and wonderful life with her husband of 74 years, Milt, and her large and loving extended family. 

“She will be remembered for her style, her vitality, and her loving nature.”

Betty’s grandson, Jason Paladino, shared the sad news on Twitter, along with a collection of beautiful family photos.

He wrote: “Lost my grandma this weekend. She was a lifelong educator, a Jeopardy champ, fashion icon, the oldest living triplet (thanks @GWR), a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Endlessly supportive and sharp as a tack. Rest in peace Betty, 1927-2023.”

Betty, who spent the final years of her life in Carlsbad and Encinitas, California, passed away on 10 June.

Betty, who also had an older sister named Addie Gabel, welcomed three children with husband Milt, and they lived in many places across the United States, including Chicago, Cleveland, Long Island, and South Jersey, before settling in California.

Her family said in a moving obituary that Betty captivated people wherever she went with her outgoing personality and impeccable style.

She was also a wonderful cook and enjoyed baking delicious treats for her loved ones.

Betty and her triplet siblings were famous right from the off, winning a baby parade in New York City.

Betty Woolf, Joseph Hocky and Minna Passman were the oldest living triplets (mixed)

She was a big fan of TV quiz shows and even appeared on Concentration and Jeopardy in the 1960s, taking home money and prizes from both.

Betty worked as an elementary school teacher for many years in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, teaching 4th and 5th grade students.

After retiring, she spent many years volunteering in retirement homes and hospitals, and she was a founding member of the Jewish Collaborative of San Diego (JCo).

Betty is survived by Milt, her three children and their spouses, her seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Hers was a life truly lived to the full.

Rest in peace, Betty.