An active life and positive outlook: How Jim Martin is thriving at 105

Jim Martin lived to the age of 105, and passed away on 17 January 2026, just four months before his 106th birthday. He shared his story with Discovery Health Medical Scheme shortly before his passing, and his family has given permission for it to be shared in his memory. Jim was also one of 110 centenarian Discovery Health Scheme members included in a Health Intelligence investigation into the health and wellbeing of members aged 100 and older (using data to May 2025). This was the second report of its kind, following the first published in late 2023. Read the full report for more insights.

Jim Martin - who was affectionately known as "Uncle Jim"- still had a twinkle in his eye at 105 years old.

Did Jim ever think he'd live to be over 100?

"No," he said. "You can't think ahead like that. I'm just a normal human being."

Born in London, Jim reminisced fondly about his time as a Major in the British military. It was during this chapter of his life that he met his wife, Esme, a nurse serving with the South African army.

"I met a lovely lady and we got married," he said.

Their wedding took place Cairo in 1944 - the ceremony arranged by her colleagues. Her wedding dress was made from parachute material - a common practice in times when other fabrics were scarce.

At our shoot, Jim's eyes filled with tears as he looked at a photograph of himself and Esme - who passed away in 2002.

His grandson, Andrew Lake, was full of admiration for how well Jim was doing at 105. "It's amazing how sharp and incredible you still are," said Andrew to his grandpa. "It's spectacular."

Jim's family described him as "the most wonderful person, who is always happy". Staff at the retirement village where Jim lived at the time of his passing echoed this sentiment, sharing stories of his positive attitude and how he still occasionally went for walks - with assistance.

An active life, well-lived

Jim lived an active and fulfilling life. He played squash well into his 40s, until an old knee injury caught up with him.

"I didn't have enough wind to keep up with the youngsters anymore," he joked.

As an engineer by profession, Jim also had a passion for carpentry. He spent as much as of his spare time as possible in his workshop making furniture and other handcrafted items like rocking chairs and tables.

Looking back on his long life, Jim had simple advice for younger generations: "Don't be frightened of anything," he said. "And if you want to do something, do it. Make sure you get the right background, and you will win."