Ohio Doctor Penned His Own Obituary Before His Death

An Ohio doctor wrote his own obituary saying that he met an “unexpected, yet fabulous” end to his life. He died on April 27 at age 48.

Dr. Thomas Lee Flanigan's cause of death is not clear. He called himself the “Ginger God of Surgery and Shenanigans”, and said that he had completed his shift “as the great American cliche” in the obituary, reported New York Post.

"Yes, I have joined the likes of Princess Diana, John Belushi, and Steve Irwin the Crocodile Hunter in leaving while still at the top of my game as an iconic superhero who seemed almost too good to be true,” he wrote in the obituary posted on Legacy.com.

The Army veteran, who attained the rank of lieutenant colonel, said that he initially married his wife, Amy, for husband jokes and had three children for the dad jokes. “It did not disappoint. The jokes I mean, but Amy and the kids were pretty good too.”

According to him, his real legacy is the dad jokes, New Year’s letters and Facebook memes. “What was I to this world if not a beacon of light shining upon those who couldn’t scan the internet for their own hilarious and entertaining comic relief?” he said.

“I guess what I am trying to say is that you’re welcome and you owe me big time.”

He also said that he has ridden into the glorious sunset. “Due to the unknown and cosmic nature of my next mission, this will be our last communication. It will self-destruct in five minutes,” the obituary said.

He said that his whereabouts are now a secret, but he has made new friends -- Elvis and Kenny. “The Church of Tom is closed for business, but please continue to worship me, light candles, and send money. You know the deal," the obituary said.

Some of the people who knew him have paid tributes to Dr Flanigan, reported the Independent. A former patient said that he was “an intelligent, funny, compassionate and caring doctor." Another said, “You meant so very much to me. The world is dimmer without you in it. I would like to thank you for your kindness and compassion in my breast cancer journey.”

A private memorial is expected to take place on Friday.