Conjoined twins Lori and George Schappell, known for being the oldest living conjoined twins, passed away at the age of 62. They died on April 7 at the University of Pennsylvania, although the cause of death was not disclosed. Born in 1961, they were craniopagus twins, meaning they had separate bodies but partially fused skulls and shared bone, vital blood vessels, and 30% of their brain. They were conjoined by the forehead facing in opposite directions and were unable to see each other.
The Schappell twins grew up in West Reading, Pennsylvania, and graduated from the Hiram G. Andrew’s Center. Throughout their lives, they were employed at the Reading Hospital and appeared in documentaries and talk shows. They were also featured in Ryan Murphy’s FX drama, Nip/Tuck. Despite their shared condition, they led independent lives, each having their own residence and pursuing their own hobbies. Lori excelled as a trophy-winning bowler, while George had a successful career as a country singer.
Guinness World Records reported that the twins always expressed a desire not to be separated. In a 1997 documentary, George stated, “Would we be separated? Absolutely not. My theory is: why fix what is not broken?” They were also known to have traveled the world together while maintaining their individuality and independence. The pair, before George came out as transgender in 2007, held the title of the oldest identical female conjoined twins.
Lori and George Schappell are survived by their father, Franklin G. Schappell, as well as six siblings and nieces and nephews. Over the years, they gained recognition for their unique bond as conjoined twins and their ability to live fulfilling lives despite their physical limitations. The twins’ passing marks the end of an era for the world’s oldest living conjoined twins, leaving behind a legacy of strength and resilience that inspired many who followed their journey. Their joint obituaries, published in Leibensperger Funeral Homes in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, serve as a tribute to their remarkable lives and the impact they had on those around them.
