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Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy's, 65, death sent shockwaves throughout Hollywood. With an investigation and heartbreaking details coming to light, they have officially been laid to rest.
The couple—who were tragically found dead inside their home back on February 26—were honored in a private funeral and memorial attended by close friends and family. Gene’s three children, whom he welcomed with his ex-wife, Faye Maltese, Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie, were also in attendance, per People.
An insider told the outlet it took place in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where their home was. It’s a heartbreaking end to a very private chapter for the two.
The couple had been living quietly in Santa Fe for years, rarely seen in public, though they were photographed together just last spring on a lunch outing. They died 7 days apart, with Betsy passing first.
Their bodies were found alongside their dog Zinna, who had sadly also passed away. Two other dogs survived and were found roaming their sprawling property. Their dogs played a key role in his discovery.
It was later confirmed that Betsy died from hantavirus—a rare but deadly illness linked to rodent droppings—while the two-time Oscar winner passed a week later from heart disease, high blood pressure, and Alzheimer's.
Following their passing, his daughter expressed gratitude, giving "credit" to her stepmom "for keeping him alive." "[Betsy] took very, very good care of him and was always looking out for his health. So I am appreciative to her for that, and I'm very saddened by her passing," she told the Daily Mail.
Leslie, Elizabeth, and Gene's granddaughter Annie released a joint statement sharing the news of his death, "He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss," it read in part.
Records from the New Mexico Department of Public Health were obtained by PEOPLE, revealing that officials found rodent nests and droppings scattered throughout the property, including in garages and sheds.
It’s a devastating story, but the couple, who had been married since 1991, are now at peace.
Rest in peace.