World's tallest woman dies aged 53

A woman who grew to be 7 feet, 7 inches tall and was recognized as the world's tallest female died yesterday, a friend said. She was 53.

Sandy Allen, who used her height to inspire schoolchildren to accept those who are different, died at a nursing home in her hometown of Shelbyville, family friend Rita Rose said.



The cause of death was not yet known. Allen had been hospitalized in recent months as she suffered from a recurring blood infection, along with diabetes, breathing troubles and kidney failure, Rose said.

In London, Guinness World Records spokesman Damian Field confirmed that Allen was still listed as the tallest woman. Some Web sites cite a 7-foot-9 woman from China.