Patton Ex Rel. Estate of Diem v. Reames

This is a lost or missing will case. A probate court jury found that Ann Patton, personal representative of the Estate of Ruth Eleanor Diem, proved by clear and convincing evidence Mary Frances Pallister (Testatrix) did not destroy her original last will and testament with an intent to revoke it. 1 The circuit court affirmed the verdict and Appellants, the nephews and niece of Testatrix, appeal. We certified this case for review from the Court of Appeals pursuant to Rule 204(b), SCACR, and now affirm.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

Testatrix died April 7, 2001, at the age of 89, leaving an…