This story was originally posted in AP
A five-year court battle over control of Aretha Frankln’s estate by her three sons ended on Tuesday, July 11, when a Michigan jury said a document handwritten by singer Aretha Franklin that someone found in her couch’s crevice after she died in 2018 is a valid Michigan will.
It’s a victory for Kecalf Franklin and Edward Franklin, whose lawyers had argued that papers dated 2014 should override 2010 will found around the same time in a locked cabinet at the Queen of Soul’s home in suburban Detroit.
The jury deliberated for less than one hour after a brief trial that started on Monday, July 10, 2023. After the court announced the verdict, Aretha Franklin’s grandchildren stepped forward from the first row to hug Kecalf and Edward.
“I’m very, very happy. I just wanted my mother’s wishes to be adhered to,” Kecalf Franklin said. “We just want to exhale right now. It’s been a long five years for my family, my children.”
Kcal Franklyn
Aretha Franklin was a global star for decades, known primarily for hits like “Think,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” and “Respect.” But, like many superstars, she did not leave behind a formal, typewritten will when she died five years ago at age 76.
Kecalf and Edward had teamed up against their brother Ted White II, who favored the 2010 will. White’s attorney, Kurt Olson, noted the earlier will was under lock and key. He said it was much more important than papers found inside a couch.