Thursday, January 26, 2012

Life Is Like a Song

Even the (arguably) rich, and famous, fall into probate court.

As you may have heard by now, Etta James, 73, passed away at a hospital in Southern California. Upon news alert from the LA Times, immediately the Facebook posts began, and didn't stop for days ... at least in my circles.  I would imagine in yours too. Etta's music is timeless and so no matter your age, gender, or other identity qualifier, you can probably find at least one song in her repertoire that you relate to.  Ultimately, many would say James is best known for "At Last" - a 1961 love-song catapulting her into the Grammy Hall of Fame. It's certainly my personal favorite.



"Court records in the singer's probate case show she also suffered from dementia and kidney failure. Her two sons had been in a court battle with their stepfather over conservatorship of her $1-million estate."

This is not an uncommon probate case note or reference.  After a loved one passes, family members, well, battle. Some disputes are greater than others, but unfortunately, this is a common happenstance in this piece of this life event.  I wish I could say I don't see it often, but I do.  

Summarized from: "Singer Etta James Is Dead at 73" by Alan Zarembo & Randy Lewis, Los Angeles Times. January 20, 2012.

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