Chandler v. Farmers and Merchants Bank

This case is an interpleader action to determine the ownership of approximately $7,700 on deposit in Farmers and Merchants Bank of Centre. The trial court awarded the fund to Lonnie Copeland, executor of the estate of Martha L. Copeland. The appellee-claimants appeal.

The record reveals the following pertinent facts:

Prior to 1973, Martha L. Copeland and her husband maintained a joint checking and savings account with the Farmers and Merchants Bank. The account was in the name of Mr. or Mrs. B.C. Copeland. Neither individual could read or write. Mr. Copeland died in 1973. Subsequently, Martha…