The Mysterious Journey of John Barrymore's Remains

John Barrymore was a prominent figure in the American theater and film industry during the early to mid-20th century. Despite his fame, his story takes an intriguing turn after his death, with his remains traveling an unexpected journey from Los Angeles to Philadelphia. This article delves into the details of why and how his final resting place was moved.

John Barrymore: A Legendary Actor

John Gilbert Barrymore was born in 1882 and became one of the leading actors in early Hollywood. Known for his classic performances in roles such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and Richard III, Barrymore was a household name. His career spanned several decades, and his legacy in theater and film remains profound.

Final Wishes and Family Dispute

John Barrymore left specific instructions in his will that his body be cremated and his ashes be laid to rest next to his parents in the family cemetery in Philadelphia. This way, his wishes align with his religious upbringing and the Catholic values he shared with his mother and father.

However, a thwarted attempt to fulfill his wishes nearly two decades after his death stems from a complex family scenario. Although Lionel, Barrymore's brother, and Ethel, his sister, were also successful actors, they followed the Catholic faith. At that time, cremation was not universally accepted by the Catholic Church, causing a significant issue.

Judicial Maneuvering and Cremation

Lionel and Mervyn Leroy, who was Barrymore’s father-in-law, were responsible for his final arrangements. They pulled off a series of clever legal maneuvers to circumvent Barrymore's explicit instructions. The result of these actions saw Barrymore's body interred at Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles, a far cry from his intended final resting place in Philadelphia.

A Family Legacy Unfulfilled

This decision deeply troubled Barrymore's son, John Jr., affectionately known as Baby Face. Throughout his life, the burden of his father's memorial being compromised by his siblings weighed heavily on him. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to relocate his father’s remains to Philadelphia.

Legacy and Honoring the Dead

The story of John Barrymore's remains moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia speaks to the complexities of family dynamics and the emotional bonds that connect people. It is a reminder of how personal wishes can sometimes be at odds with religious or cultural norms.

If you are interested in further exploring the legacy of John Barrymore or the complexities of family disputes surrounding final arrangements, we recommend checking out various historical websites and books on the subject. Your journey into the annals of theater history may take you on an unexpected but enlightening trip.