Having outlived two world wars and numerous pandemics, Tatsumi reached a rare milestone as Japan's oldest person, a title she inherited following the death of Kane Tanaka at 119. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest living person in April 2022, Tatsumi was one of only 27 individuals to reach the age of 116.

Born in 1907, Tatsumi lived a full life, marrying a farmer, raising three children, and never experiencing any major health issues, besides a broken thigh in her 70s. She cherished gardening and was skilled in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and flower arranging, pursuits she maintained well into her later years before moving to the nursing home at 106.

Her son, Kanji, now 76, expressed admiration for his mother's long life. Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura also paid tribute to Tatsumi's remarkable longevity. Japan is known for its high life expectancy and has been the residence of several of the oldest people on record.