what is/isn't premature.? My mothers parents lived long lives. Her father lived from 1899-1999, dying at 99, and her mother lived from 1902-1990, living 88 years. Mother, however, lived from 1927-2006 living to be only 78. I say that because of the major difference in the ages at death between my mother and the parent who lived closer to her age (her mother) that mother's death was premature. My sister says that mother lived a long life and despite her parents living far longer that mother did not die prematurely. Also, considering that many people live far longer than 78 years, that is not that long of a life.