Column Chronicles: More memorable last words of the executioned

More memorable last words of the executioned

Frank Cotolo
October 9, 2025

Miles DeMilo Maynard (MDM) spent decades attending executions in order to write a book revealing the last words uttered by prisoners at the site of their execution. Untitled so far, MDM's publisher has released never before heard quotes, assuring readers they are authentic.

"We didn't include their names," MDM said, "but there is a montage of unidentified faces in the center of the book, if readers want to guess."

Here are some of the thousands of quotes included in the book.

I still claim innocence but apparently that too is punishable by death. Who knew?

My last meal is not sitting well.

The justice system has its flaws. Not in this case, of course, but I still think it's up for a complete overhaul.

I would rather be hanged. I don't like needles.

It looks like my last request won't be granted.

I said to my wife, "I guess this means you'll be able to marry again".

When it was official that I got the death sentence I asked my lawyer for my deposit back.

My request to be executed in a venue where the death penalty was not allowed was not granted.

Crap, I didn't finish reading the longest Stephen King novel.

I did in my pants.

There is no doubt in my mind that the jury was filled with hatred and violent thoughts towards me and all twelve of them wanted to kill me. I laugh not, since I can only die once but the jury will die a dozen deaths.

My last words come from The Bible. Quote Genesis, two twenty or maybe thirty: The lord formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. And his breath smelled of stale rain and the putrid gasses that form in the cosmos.

If I could do it all over again I'd do it all over you.

Frank Cotolo can be found hosting the talk and interview programme Cotolo Chronicles. You can send him an e-mail at this address: frank@148.ca.