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No estate plan: a lesson from the extraordinary life of Aretha Franklin

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

It’s been widely reported that Aretha Franklin, The Queen of Soul, died without any sort of Estate Plan leaving many people wondering: “Why would someone so successful not have a financial plan in place?” We should all pause and THINK about what we’re trying to do with our assets after death.

Unfortunately, it is fairly common for people to die without even the simplest form of an Estate Plan. Even tremendously successful individuals like Prince and Aretha Franklin have made this mistake. While Prince and Aretha Franklin certainly have more complex financial affairs than most of us, Estate Plans are not just for rich people. In fact, a basic plan can be relatively inexpensive, especially when you consider the potential legal fees and costs which arise when there is no plan at all.

WHY HAVE A WILL OR ESTATE PLAN?

Whether we are meeting with potential clients or giving estate planning seminars, we always stress the importance of having an estate plan in place no matter how simple the plan might be. Even a simple Estate Plan gives your family guidance and allows them to R-E-S-P-E-C-T your wishes.

The only way you can be sure to “get what you want” is to properly (and legally) communicate your wishes. Simply telling someone won’t cut it. After all, neither a judge nor your family will be able to ask you after your death. Having a plan in place can also help prevent family fights. You may think your family would never fight over your assets after you die. You may be right, but you may also be wrong. There’s no good reason to take a chance. Make your wishes so clear that your family members have nothing to fight about after your death.

An Estate Plan is important irrespective of your financial situation. You do not have to be rich or famous to need a Will. Even if you think you don’t have enough assets to justify an Estate Plan, it is likely that your possessions have real meaning to family members or friends.

WHY PEOPLE DON’T HAVE A WILL OR ESTATE PLAN.

Typically, people put off planning because they are “too busy” or they simply do not want to think about their own mortality. Death can be an unpleasant topic. It is obviously an uncertain event which makes it is easy to put off and left for another today. However, death is an unfortunate reality for everyone. As such, we should all learn a lesson from Aretha Franklin’s mistake and plan ahead.

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE DIES WITHOUT A WILL?

If you don’t have an Estate Plan or Will, your Estate may become subject to state law and Probate Court orders. This is likely to lead to family arguments and legal fees and costs, which in the end reduces the amount of assets remaining for your family members.

NEED A TENNESSEE ESTATE PLANNING LAWYER?

We work hard to make setting up your Estate Plan as easy as possible. Basic plans can be relatively inexpensive even though they are drafted with your specific needs and concerns in mind. If you do not have an Estate Plan or have not had your plan reviewed in a number of years, you need an Estate Planning lawyer Memphis trusts to guide you through the process.

Call Patterson Bray at 901-372-5003.

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Client Reviews

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Cheryl Adkins 
 1 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hailey Wade 
 25 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Deb Clark 
 30 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tanya White 
 30 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Charmaine Sego 
 30 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phil Chamberlain 
 47 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC - first class lawyers.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Catherine McGee 
 67 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marva Johnson 
 73 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
M.JOHNSON
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pam Nicole 
 74 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Steven Creasy 
 95 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Rachel was amazing and professional. Highly recommend. Thank you!

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No estate plan: a lesson from the extraordinary life of Aretha Franklin

WHY HAVE A WILL OR ESTATE PLAN?

WHY PEOPLE DON’T HAVE A WILL OR ESTATE PLAN.

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE DIES WITHOUT A WILL?

NEED A TENNESSEE ESTATE PLANNING LAWYER?

Patterson Bray

Blog & News

Legal Options After the Frayser Shooting

How do I ensure my child’s inheritance is protected from divorce?

How do I file a probate case in Tennessee?