7 Famous Women Who Made History With Their Wills—Or Lack of One
Estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy or the elderly—it’s a crucial step for anyone who wants to control their legacy and provide for loved ones. Unfortunately, even some of history’s most iconic women had estate plans that led to controversy, legal battles, and unintended consequences. Here’s a look at seven famous women whose wills (or lack thereof) left a lasting impact—and the key lessons we can learn from them.
Aretha Franklin
What Happened
The Queen of Soul passed away in 2018, and it was initially believed she had no will. However, multiple handwritten wills were later discovered—one hidden in a couch. This led to a court battle between her heirs over which document should be honored. After years of legal disputes, a 2023 ruling determined that one of the handwritten wills was valid.
What Can We Learn
To avoid confusion and family conflict, estate plans should be legally executed and stored in a secure but accessible place. A disorganized or informal will can lead to prolonged court battles and unintended outcomes.
Joan Rivers
What Happened
Unlike many celebrities, comedian and TV host Joan Rivers had a clear and well-structured estate plan when she passed in 2014. Her will ensured her daughter was provided for and even included provisions for her beloved pets and long-time staff.
What Can We Learn
A thorough and thoughtful estate plan allows you to take care of your loved ones—both human and furry—without leaving legal matters up to chance. Proper planning ensures your wishes are honored exactly as intended.
Marilyn Monroe
What Happened
Marilyn Monroe left most of her estate to her acting coach, Lee Strasberg. However, after his death, control of Monroe’s estate passed to his widow, who profited heavily from Monroe’s likeness—likely in ways Monroe herself wouldn’t have approved of.
What Can We Learn
Choosing the right executor is critical. Without clear guidelines, your estate may be managed in ways that don’t align with your intentions. Using a trust can provide more control over how your legacy is handled.
Doris Duke
What Happened
Heiress Doris Duke left behind a fortune of over $1 billion, intending for it to be used for charitable purposes. However, her estate became entangled in lawsuits over allegations of mismanagement, resulting in years of legal battles that delayed the fulfillment of her philanthropic wishes.
What Can We Learn
A well-structured estate plan can ensure charitable donations are honored as intended. Setting up a charitable trust or clearly outlining donation plans in a legally binding document can help prevent mismanagement and legal disputes. Working with professional estate planners and trustees can provide oversight, ensuring that philanthropic goals are carried out effectively and without unnecessary delays.
Florence Griffith Joyner (FloJo)
What Happened
Olympic track star Florence Griffith Joyner reportedly had a will, but after her passing in 1998, it was never found. This led to a long and complicated probate process that delayed the distribution of her assets.
What Can We Learn
A will is only useful if it can be located. It should be kept in a secure but known place, and at least one trusted person should know where to find it when the time comes.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
What Happened
Jackie Kennedy Onassis set up a structured estate plan that provided for her children while also ensuring privacy through the use of trusts. Her careful planning helped her family avoid public legal battles.
What Can We Learn
Trusts can provide security and privacy, allowing you to control how assets are distributed while protecting your family from unnecessary complications.
Whitney Houston
What Happened
Whitney Houston had a will, but it was outdated. When she passed in 2012, her estate plan did not reflect changes in her family situation, leading to complications in how her assets were handled—especially after the passing of her daughter, Bobbi Kristina.
What Can We Learn
Life changes, and so should your will. Regular updates ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes and family situation.
Final Thoughts
These stories show that estate planning isn’t just about writing a will—it’s about making sure it’s legally sound, up-to-date, and accessible (learn how to make your documents valid here). Whether you have a vast fortune or a few sentimental possessions, a clear estate plan can save your loved ones from unnecessary stress and legal battles.
At GoodTrust, we make estate planning easy, secure, and accessible for everyone. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—start your estate plan today!