In the final moments of someone’s life, I think their last words can reveal so much—whether it’s fear, regret, or even defiance. When it comes to people facing execution, those final words feel even more intense, offering us a haunting glimpse into what’s going through their minds as they stare death in the face.
Some express remorse, others anger, and a few maintain an eerie calm. No matter what, these last words always seem to leave a lasting impact, sticking with anyone who hears them.
James French – “How about this for a headline? ‘French Fries.’”
James French was executed in 1966 by electric chair for murder. His final words were a grim joke, playing on his own name and the method of his execution. This morbid humor shocked those present and is remembered as one of the most unusual last statements in history.
Aileen Wuornos – “I’d just like to say I’m sailing with the rock, and I’ll be back like Independence Day, with Jesus. June 6, like the movie, big mother ship and all. I’ll be back.”
Aileen Wuornos, a serial killer executed by lethal injection in 2002, made a bizarre statement filled with references to pop culture and her belief in a dramatic return. Her words reflect her disturbed mental state and have left a chilling legacy.
Thomas J. Grasso – “I did not get my SpaghettiOs, I got spaghetti. I want the press to know this.”
Thomas J. Grasso was executed in 1995, and his final words were a complaint about not receiving the meal he requested. His seemingly trivial last words are unsettling because they highlight the mundane concerns in the face of death.
Robert Alton Harris – “You can be a king or a street sweeper, but everybody dances with the grim reaper.”
Robert Alton Harris, executed by gas chamber in 1992, quoted a line from the movie Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey before his death. His words serve as a grim reminder of the inevitability of death, no matter who you are.
Timothy McVeigh – “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.”
Timothy McVeigh, responsible for the Oklahoma City bombing, quoted the poem Invictus before his execution in 2001. His choice of these lines underscores his sense of control and defiance, even in the face of death.
Gary Gilmore – “Let’s do it.”
Gary Gilmore was the first person to be executed in the U.S. after the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1977. His brief and straightforward last words became famous for their stark acceptance of his fate.
James Allen Red Dog – “I’m going home, babe.”
Executed in 1993, James Allen Red Dog’s last words were addressed to his wife, expressing a poignant acceptance of death and a belief in an afterlife. His final statement contrasts with the brutality of his crimes.
Jeffrey David Matthews – “I think that governor’s phone is broke. He hasn’t called yet.”
Jeffrey David Matthews, executed in 2011, made a dark joke about the possibility of a last-minute reprieve. His words reflect the tense uncertainty that can accompany an execution.
Barbara Graham – “Good people are always so sure they’re right.”
Barbara Graham, one of the few women executed in the U.S., was put to death in the gas chamber in 1955. Her last words were a bitter commentary on the righteousness of those who judged her, revealing her anger and resentment.
George Appel – “Well, gentlemen, you are about to see a baked Appel.”
George Appel, executed by electric chair in 1928, used a pun based on his name to make light of his impending death. His attempt at humor in such a grim situation is chilling in its nonchalance.
Vincent Gutierrez – “Where’s my stunt double when you need one?”
Vincent Gutierrez, executed by lethal injection in 2007, made a sarcastic comment referencing a stunt double, adding a darkly humorous twist to his final moments.
Jimmy Glass – “I’d rather be fishing.”
Jimmy Glass was executed in 1987, and his last words were a simple expression of a mundane wish, making his death all the more poignant.
Saddam Hussein – “Iraq is nothing without me.”
Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq, was executed in 2006. His last words were filled with pride and an unwillingness to accept the downfall of his regime, reflecting his belief in his own importance.
Sean Flannagan – “I love you.”
Sean Flannagan, executed in 1989, directed his last words to a loved one, reminding us of the human connections even the condemned hold onto until the end.
Ted Bundy – “I’d like you to give my love to my family and friends.”
Ted Bundy, one of the most notorious serial killers in history, was executed in 1989. His final words, expressing love to his family, seem jarringly normal for someone capable of such horrific crimes.
George Engel – “Hurrah for anarchy! This is the happiest moment of my life.”
George Engel, one of the Haymarket anarchists, was executed in 1887. His defiant last words reflected his unwavering commitment to his political beliefs, even in the face of death.
Roger Keith Coleman – “An innocent man is going to be murdered tonight.”
Roger Keith Coleman maintained his innocence until his execution in 1992. His final words were a protest against what he believed to be a grave injustice.
James Jackson – “See you all on the other side. Warden, murder me.”
James Jackson, executed in 2007, spoke his last words with a mixture of resignation and accusation, pointing to the gravity of the moment and the finality of his fate.
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We love learning random, interesting snippets that add to our understanding of the world. From biology to space and everything in between, a wide range of topics can spark your curiosity.
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Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
