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Oldest woman in the United States celebrates 116th birthday

The United States wasn't the only one celebrating a milestone birthday Friday: Gertrude Weaver from south Arkansas turned 116, making her the oldest person in America and second oldest in the world. WATCH: Oldest American celebrates her 116th birthdayThe Gerontology Research Group, which analyzes U.S. Census records, awarded her the recognition. She lives at the Silver Oaks Health and Rehabilita

The United States wasn't the only one celebrating a milestone birthday Friday: Gertrude Weaver from south Arkansas turned 116, making her the oldest person in America and second oldest in the world. 

WATCH: Oldest American celebrates her 116th birthday

The Gerontology Research Group, which analyzes U.S. Census records, awarded her the recognition. 

Gertrude Weaver
Gertrude Weaver poses at Silver Oaks Health and Rehabilitation Center in Camden, Ark., a day before her 116th birthday.Danny Johnston / Today

She lives at the Silver Oaks Health and Rehabilitation Center in Camden and enjoyed some cake with a few other residents who attended the birthday bash. 

The Arkansas native married in 1915 and had four kids with husband. Three of Weaver's kids have died. She has one 93-year-old son who is still living. 

PHOTOS: Guinness World Records slideshow 

Earlier this week, she told the Camden News the secret to her long life is trusting in God, hard work and loving everybody.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.