We reported not too long ago about a dispute between the wife and children of the deceased icon of the automotive world Carroll Shelby. To recap, Shelby passed away on May 10 at the age of 89 after accomplishing so much over the years, including the creation of the AC Cobra and the legendary Shelby Mustang.
Shelby was married to his seventh wife Cleo at the time of his death and he had three children before marrying Cleo. They presented estate planning documents signed by their father directing the eldest brother to arrange for the cremation of the body.
Cleo Shelby was of the mind that it was her right to see to the final arrangements and she contended that Shelby told her that he wanted to be buried after he passed away.
This disagreement between Cleo and the children wound up delaying the final arrangements as the legal machinery was set into motion.
Now we are hearing that there has been a breakthrough in this case. The parties have decided to come to terms and ultimately the body of Carroll Shelby will be cremated in accordance with his wishes as stated in the documents possessed by his children.
His wife will get a portion of the remains as will each of his children. The remainder will be buried alongside his parents in a family plot that exists in his hometown of Leesburg, Texas.
Estate planning lawyers will always emphasize the importance of honest and open communication with family members to avoid future disputes, and this case underscores the importance of making sure that everyone is on the same page.
Alan Augulis, Estate Planning Attorney
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