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Strange Last Meals Of Death Row Inmates

Bizarre Last Suppers: Death Row's Most Unusual Final Meals

By Michael AndersonPublished 12 months ago 3 min read

In some states in America and other countries, there's a custom for criminals on death row. It's called the infamous last meal. These convicted felons can choose any food and drink they desire, within certain guidelines, on the eve of their execution.

Let’s dive into some of the strangest last meal requests ever recorded!

Starting with Victor Harry Feguer, sentenced to death in 1963. He requested just one thing: a single olive with the pit still in it. After his execution, the pit was found in his suit pocket. Many believe he intended to be buried with it, hoping an olive tree would grow, symbolizing peace.

Then we have Gerald Lee Mitchell. His sweet tooth took over as he asked for an assorted bag of Jolly Ranchers. He finished the whole bag before facing his fate—a real sugar high!

Lawrence Russel Brewer went big in 2011. His final meal order included two fried chicken steaks, a triple bacon cheeseburger, a meat feast pizza, and more. But after all that, he refused to eat, claiming he wasn’t hungry. This led to a ban on last meal requests in Texas.

John Wayne Gacy, better known as the killer clown, ordered a bucket of KFC, french fries, and strawberries. He never seemed to tire of KFC, even as his end approached.

Some, like John Spenkelink, opted for a drink instead. He requested a flask of Jack Daniels to share with the prison superintendent. After his execution, Florida banned alcohol from last meal requests.

Aileen Wuornos had a different drink in mind: a single cup of black coffee. Her famous last words hinted at her belief in returning after death, making her request quite intriguing.

Meanwhile, Ricky Ray Rector ordered steak, fried chicken, and cherry Kool-Aid, but left his pecan pie untouched, saying he was saving it for later.

Timothy McVeigh wanted only two pints of mint chocolate chip ice cream before his execution. For a man responsible for many deaths, that seemed oddly generous.

David Leon Woods, who spent 22 years on death row, asked for pizza and a birthday cake—his birthday being three months after his execution.

Then there's Thomas J. Grasso. His meal included everything from barbecued ribs to a can of Spaghettios served at room temperature, which he was not pleased with. He famously complained, "I did not get my Spaghettios."

Stephen Wayne Anderson brought randomness to his last meal request. He ordered two grilled cheese sandwiches, cottage cheese, and even radishes.

Peter J. Miniel upped the ante in 2004 with 20 beef tacos, 20 beef enchiladas, and a whole lot more. His order was enormous, perhaps a farewell feast for the ages.

Velma Barfield, on the other hand, went for a packet of Cheez Doodles and a Coke, a surprising choice for a notorious killer.

Robert Alton Harris combined convenience and variety, asking for a bucket of KFC, two large pizzas, and a six-pack of Pepsi. His last words were quite profound.

Ronnie Lee Gardner made the most of his time. He ordered steak, lobster tail, and a movie marathon of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It must have been the longest last meal ever!

Philip Workman focused on generosity, requesting a vegetarian pizza for a homeless person. Though denied, his request sparked a wave of donations, resulting in pizzas being sent to shelters.

Angel Nieves Diaz turned down his last meal, sticking with the regular prison menu. He used his final words to condemn the death penalty.

Oba Chandler went simple, opting for two salami sandwiches and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich—classic, yet poignant.

Robert Dale Conklin aimed high with his lavish request: filet mignon, shrimp, baked potatoes, and more. Quite the gourmet spread!

Finally, James Edward Smith had one of the most bizarre requests ever: a lump of soil! Since dirt wasn't allowed, he settled for yogurt instead.

So, if you were in their position, what would you order? Which meal intrigued you the most? Let me know in the comments below. Thanks for Reading!.

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Michael Anderson

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