Estate of Maher

The decedent, Grace Maher, died on February 19, 1990, at the age of 80. She was predeceased by her husband, Lawrence Maher, who died on November 4, 1988. Grace and Lawrence had no children. Petitioner, Edward Maher, is the nephew of Lawrence; respondent, Mary Anne King, is the niece of Grace Maher. On March 13, 1990, an instrument dated December 22, 1988, was admitted to probate as Grace’s last will. Respondent was the sole beneficiary under that will and was named and appointed as its executor. On April 4, 1990, petitioner instituted this action to contest the will. The third amended…