In Re Estate of Keeling

Petitioners, daughters of decedent, appeal distribution of entire wrongful-death award to respondent, decedent’s surviving spouse. We reverse.

Decedent (William) was killed in an automobile accident in June 1982. Respondent (Lucille), as administratrix, settled a wrongful-death claim with State Farm Insurance. The estate was awarded $100,000. Lucille, individually, received a settlement that is not being contested. The trial court held that the award to the estate was to be distributed pursuant to the Wrongful Death Act. The court ordered that briefs be submitted and arguments be heard on the…