In a significant development, a jury has deemed the handwritten will of Aretha Franklin as valid. Following the iconic singer’s demise in 2018, a document penned by her was discovered in her couch, triggering a dispute that has pitted her sons against each other.
Kecalf (KELF’) Franklin and Edward Franklin have emerged triumphant, as their attorneys contended that the papers dated 2014 should take precedence over a 2010 will, which was found at the same time in a locked cabinet at the Queen of Soul’s residence in suburban Detroit.
After a brief trial that commenced on Monday, the jury deliberated for less than an hour before reaching this verdict. Expressing his joy, Kecalf Franklin stated, “I think that it’s a great thing. I think that she (Aretha Franklin) would be very happy. She’s proud right now that her wishes have been adhered to.”
When Aretha Franklin passed away five years ago at the age of 76, she did not leave behind a formal, typewritten will. However, both the discovered documents, filled with scribbles and cryptic passages, surfaced in 2019 when a niece thoroughly searched the house for records.
During closing arguments, legal representatives of Franklin’s two sons emphasized that finding the handwritten papers in a notebook within the couch holds no legal significance.
Kecalf and Edward joined forces against their brother, Ted White II, who supported the 2010 will. White’s lawyer highlighted the fact that the 2010 will was securely locked away, suggesting its heightened importance compared to papers found within a couch.
While Franklin’s estate managers have been handling bills, resolving substantial tax debts, and generating income from music royalties and intellectual property, the will dispute has remained unresolved. Although there are discrepancies between the 2010 and 2014 versions, both indicate that the four sons of Aretha Franklin would share the proceeds from music and copyrights.
However, according to the 2014 will, Kecalf Franklin and the grandchildren would inherit their mother’s primary residence in Bloomfield Hills, which was valued at $1.1 million at the time of her passing but holds a significantly higher worth today.
Kecalf Franklin expressed relief, saying, “We just want to exhale right now. It’s been a long five years for my family, my children. And we just want to exhale, truthfully.”
The older will stipulate that 53-year-old Kecalf and 64-year-old Edward Franklin must pursue business education and obtain a certificate or degree to benefit from the estate. This provision is absent in the 2014 version. Ted White, who played the guitar alongside Aretha Franklin, testified against the 2014 will.
Aretha Franklin is renowned worldwide for several decades, particularly for her hits like “Think,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” and “Respect.”