She knew how to play the part of a stylish woman of wealth and sophistication. That is likely because Dina Merrill lived the role onscreen and off. The actress who died a few days ago at age 93 was known for a lithe elegance that befitted a career that spanned 5 decades. Merrill had supporting roles in a 1950s Tracy-Hepburn movie, as well as roles in films starring Cary Grant, Elizabeth Taylor, Burt Lancaster, Robert Mitchum and Deborah Kerr.
Off the silver screen, she was known as an heiress with a rebellious streak. Her mother was heiress to the Post cereal fortune and her father was the namesake and founder of stockbroker firm E.F. Hutton. Her estate is apparently estimated to be worth approximately $5 billion.
News reports of her passing have not disclosed the names of her heirs, though she has two surviving children.
Merrill’s life was gold-plated from the start. She grew up in a Florida house you might have heard of in recent days: the 118-room Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach.
Few of us will ever approach the wealth or fame of Dina Merrill. But we nevertheless have property, possessions and assets worth protecting and passing on.
For those who have lost a loved one, the experience can be emotionally devastating. The grief can be compounded by legal issues if you have been named executor of the estate or been tabbed as a trustee.
The probate process includes an often bewildering set of tasks that can include the inventory and valuation of assets and the identification and notification of heirs and creditors.
A Cocoa attorney experienced in probate can help you navigate the process and complete your duties. You can contact Cantwell & Goldman, PA, for more information.