The final moments of an executed criminal are often filled with a mix of remorse, defiance, and sometimes, surprising clarity. These Last Words Of Executed Criminals can provide a rare glimpse into the minds of individuals who have committed
heinous crimes, revealing their thoughts, regrets, and occasionally, their twisted sense of humor. Here, we delve into the final utterances of thirteen executed criminals, exploring the intriguing, chilling, and sometimes bizarre last words they left behind.
Gary Gilmore: “Let’s do it.”
Gary Gilmore was executed in 1977 for the murders of two men in Utah. His last words, “Let’s do it,” were uttered with a sense of eagerness, almost as if he was ready to face his fate head-on.
This phrase would later inspire Nike’s famous slogan, “Just do it,” adding an unexpected twist to his already infamous legacy.
Ted Bundy: “I’d like you to give my love to my family and friends.”
Notorious serial killer Ted Bundy, who confessed to the murders of over 30 women, used his final moments in 1989 to express what seemed like
genuine affection for his loved ones. His last words stand in stark contrast to his horrific crimes, leaving many to ponder the complexities of his character.
Aileen Wuornos: “I’d just like to say I’m sailing with the rock….”
Aileen Wuornos, executed in 2002 for the murders of seven men, delivered one of the most cryptic and bizarre last statements. Her reference to “sailing
with the rock” and returning “like Independence Day, with Jesus” has been interpreted in various ways, reflecting her troubled mind and the chaotic life she led.
John Wayne Gacy: “Kiss my ass.”
John Wayne Gacy, the infamous “Killer Clown” who murdered at least 33 young men and boys, remained defiant until the end. His crude final words in 1994 were a stark reminder of his contempt for society and lack of remorse for his actions.
James French: “How’s this for a headline? ‘French fries.'”
James French, executed in 1966 for murder, managed to inject a macabre sense of humor into his last words. His pun on his own name and method of execution (the electric chair) highlighted his dark wit, leaving a lasting impression on those present.
Karl Panzram: “Hurry it up, you Hoosier bastard! I could kill ten men while you’re fooling around!”
Karl Panzram, a serial killer and rapist executed in 1930, remained as violent and unrepentant in death as he was in life. His final words were a taunting challenge, underscoring his disdain for his executioners and his lack of regret for his crimes.
Peter Kürten
Peter Kürten, known as the “Vampire of Düsseldorf,” was executed by guillotine in 1931. His morbid curiosity about his own execution reflects the disturbed mind of a man who found pleasure in the
act of killing. His last words were …. “Tell me, after my head has been chopped off, will I still be able to hear, at least for a moment, the sound of my own blood gushing from the stump of my neck?”
George Appel: “Well, gentlemen, you are about to see a baked Appel.”
George Appel, executed in 1928 for murder, also chose to use humor in his final moments. His pun on his own name and the electric chair is another example of how some criminals use their last words to leave a memorable, albeit unsettling, impression.
Thomas J. Grasso: “I did not get my SpaghettiOs, I got spaghetti. I want the press to know this.”
Thomas J. Grasso, executed in 1995 for two murders, used his last words to complain about his final meal. His trivial grievance about not receiving SpaghettiOs instead of regular spaghetti is a bizarrely mundane concern 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 in 1992 for the murder of two teenage boys, quoted a line from the movie “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey” in his final moments. His choice of words suggests a resigned acceptance of his fate, viewing death as the great equalizer.
Barbara Graham: “Good people are always so sure they’re right.”
Barbara Graham, executed in 1955 for murder, used her last words to challenge the moral certainty of those who condemned her. Her statement reflects a defiant skepticism about the justice system and the society that judged her.
Tom Ketchum: “I’ll be in hell before you start breakfast! Let her rip!”
Tom “Black Jack” Ketchum, an outlaw executed in 1901, remained defiant and colorful in his final moments. His bravado and vivid imagery of hell before breakfast added a dramatic flair to his execution.
George Engel: “Hurrah for anarchy! This is the happiest moment of my life.”
George Engel, one of the Haymarket martyrs executed in 1887 for his role in the Haymarket affair, used his last words to express his
unwavering commitment to anarchism. His declaration of joy in the face of death highlights his dedication to his political beliefs.
These Last Words Of Executed Criminals offer a fascinating, albeit chilling, insight into the minds of executed criminals. From defiance and humor to regret and bizarre musings, their last words reveal a
range of human emotions and thoughts at the brink of death. While their crimes are unforgivable, their final moments provide a glimpse into the complex and often contradictory nature of their personalities.
