In re the Accounting of Howell

Campbell, S.

Decedent died in the city of Schenectady on or about November 21, 1945, leaving a widow and no children. His gross estate amounted to $9,348:62. Debts, including a funeral bill of $1,319, total $2,762.57. Objection has been interposed to the payment of the funeral bill on the ground it is excessive.

Decedent resided at a hotel for many years, having been separated from his wife. When death occurred, the proprietor of the hotel, John Califano, summoned the funeral director to take charge of decedent’s remains. Mr. Califano testified that decedent told him, prior to death, that he…