Lori and George Schappell, who were conjoined twins and previously identified as Dori, have passed away at the age of 62. The twins, born on September 18, 1961, to Franklin and Ruth Schappell of Perry Township in Berks County, were the oldest living conjoined twins in the world. They died on April 7 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, with the cause of death remaining undisclosed.
Living in Reading at the time of their passing, the twins were craniopagus twins, with partially fused skulls—a rare form of conjoined twinning that represents only 2% to 6% of cases. Lori and George were committed to living as independently as possible and had their own residence since the age of 24, where they prioritized their travels and personal pursuits.
George revealed in 2007 that he was transgender and identified as George, breaking free from the name Dori. Over the years, they made numerous appearances in documentaries, talk shows, and even an episode of the TV show “Nip/Tuck.” George was a talented country music singer, performing across the United States, while Lori excelled in bowling and worked at Reading Hospital’s laundry department for several years.
Their deaths mark the end of an era for the legendary conjoined twins, beloved by many for their strength, independence, and dedication to living life on their own terms. Their legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who admired and respected their unique story.