Sunday Obits & Eats
One of my favorite memories of my childhood-or maybe traumatic memories-was when my dad would flip open The Sunday Times, take a deep breath, and begin to read the obituary section.
Aloud.
To me.
To no one.
Just starting the morning right, with bacon, eggs, and someone’s death.
Just one of the answers to why I became a mortician…
When I ran Undertaking LA-the original funeral home for The Order of the Good Death-we would have numerous requests for an obituary section but when you’re just a young mortician trying to make your way in the world you don’t always have the time or resources.
Obituaries are so fascinating because they often contain unexpected information about those we love. My favorite was an absolute roast of a very bitch aunt from her very hilarious nephew. My greatest regret is not saving that, but I hope one day I find it again so I can post it here.
While currently the faces below are probably pretty familiar due to their prominent work it is my hope that you will submit your own obituary, and hopefully a recipe, about your favorite human. Hell, send me the obituary you want written for yourself! Tell a friend that they can find it here if you die. It’s my goal to keep this site going as long as I live and after. Maybe this website is my obituary… (scratches head) oh shibby I think I just stumbled onto something…
Margaret Hamilton: December 9th, 1902 - May 16th, 1985
You know her as the Wicked Witch of the West but she was also quite a serious actress and a school teacher! Check out this wicked obit and a little nibble in honor of one the most iconic witches of all time!
Frederick Hubbard Gwynne (July 10, 1926 – July 2, 1993)
One of the most recognizable faces in the world is buried in an unmarked grave. Peak behind the curtain for a little bit about the man behind the monster mask and get a recipe for chocolate “moose”.
Hedy Lamarr: November 9, 1914 – January 19, 2000
Hedy Lamarr is often remembered only as a pretty face but she is actually the mother of WiFi. Read about her escapades in life and tech and then check out a classic comfort dish I chose from her home in Austria.
Anthony Michael Bourdain: June 25, 1956 – June 8, 2018
How do you even begin to talk about Anthony Bourdain? I don’t know and this is simply putting a pin in a topic I hope I get to talk more about. Within this page is Anthony’s obituary and a recipe for Beer Braised Bratwurst and Potato Salad, an homage to his real life last meal.
Fred McFeely Rogers: March 20, 1928 - February 27, 2003
Mister Rogers influenced us in so many ways it’s almost immeasurable. So, when it comes to food, who influenced him? Rogers was a vegetarian, and while I bet had he been alive today he’d probably be vegan, I think that his grandmother’s Corn Pudding is pretty sweet. I’ve got two versions for you to try!
Anna Nicole Smith (born Vickie Lynn Hogan): November 28, 1967 – February 8, 2007
Anna Nicole Smith never really existed. Herein lies the very short tale of VIckie Lynn Hogan. And maybe, truth be told, it’s less of tale and more like, food for thought…
Carrie Frances Fisher: October 21, 1956 – December 27, 2016
On Tuesday, December 27, legendary actress Carrie Fisher, 60, was found dead, drowned in silver moonlight and strangled by her own brassiere.
Whitney Elizabeth Houston: August 9, 1963 – February 11, 2012
Whitney Houston was the queen of pop, so it’s only fitting we should celebrate with one of her favorite snacks… Pop Tarts!
Amy Jade Winehouse: September 14, 1983 – July 23, 2011
Amy Winehouse celebrated her one year wedding anniversary chowing down on some greasy delicious fish n’ chips. Try out this vegan version that features tofu. Hey, don’t knock it til ya try it!
Julia Carolyn Child: August 15, 1912 – August 13, 2004
How could I write about food without including the amazing Julia Child?! Also wondering what Vichyssoise is? It’s a yummy potato leek soup!
Betty Marion White: January 17, 1922 – December 31, 2021
O.K. so technically this is her first birthday cake in heaven, or our first birthday cake without her, but either way, this rainbow surprise cake accompanies a clip of Rose’s last cake in St. Olaf and I hope it provides sugar for your heart and soul and contemplation of important holidays without our loved ones.