Aretha Franklin: A Tale of Two Wills
Recently the news has been full of Aretha Franklin’s family rift due to what amounted to her Will. The Queen of Soul, known for hits such as ‘Natural Woman’, ‘Respect’ and ‘I Say a Little Prayer’ left two handwritten documents which have come under the spotlight; one in 2010 locked inside a cabinet, and the other in 2014, located in a spiral notebook found beneath her living room cushions.
The singer did not leave behind a professionally written Will when she died five years ago at the age of 76, but both handwritten documents were found by her niece in 2019. These two different notes dated four years apart, named two different sons as beneficiaries to her estate.
In July 2023, the 2014 handwritten document had been ruled as a valid Michigan Will, with the jury reaching a decision in less than an hour following a brief trial. Her youngest son Kecalf Franklin testified that it was not odd for his mother to conduct her business on the couch. However, Ted White II, Franklin’s third son, testified against the 2014 will, saying his mother would usually get important documents done “conventionally and legally” and with assistance from an attorney.
Even though both handwritten documents indicate Franklin’s four sons would share income from music and copyrights, there are significant differences between the 2010 and 2014 versions. The first document said Kecalf, 53, and Edward Franklin, 64, “must take business classes and get a certificate or a degree” to benefit from the estate, but this provision was not included in the most recent version. Under the 2014 document, Kecalf Franklin and grandchildren would get his mother’s main home in Bloomfield Hills.
What were Aretha’s actual wishes? We will never know for definite, but to avoid family disputes and to ensure that your wishes are reflected when you pass, we recommend having a Will in place and regularly reviewing it to make sure it reflects your personal circumstances.
Many people worry about making a Will but it is one of the most important things you can do. It need not be expensive but it is worthwhile getting full advice to ensure that your Will accurately records your wishes and provides for your loved ones in the way that you wish.
We can assist you making your Will, updating your Will and storing your newly signed Will. For more information please visit our Wills and Trusts webpage. To arrange an appointment please contact our specialist Wills and Trusts Solicitors on 01603 666001 or email enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk
*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other professional advice.