My sister didn't have a will, but she wanted me to have the annuity that was in her name and other possessions. Her husband has not given any of it to me. (Amuniversal)Amuniversal
DEAR ABBY:
My sister passed away 11 months ago, just one month after a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. I loved her and miss her dearly. She told her husband and me that she wanted me to have specific belongings and her annuity that was in her name, but she did not have a will.
My brother-in-law has not given me anything that she requested be given to me. I haven’t asked why, but I feel if I don’t ask, he’ll never give me an explanation. I realize that since she didn’t have a will, he’s not legally obligated to give me anything. It’s really about trust, honesty and fulfilling her spoken wishes, but I guess he doesn’t view it that way. I feel totally disrespected. Should I never ask him why and distance myself from him? — DISAPPOINTED IN PENNSYLVANIA
DEAR DISAPPOINTED:
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your sister. By ignoring her wishes, her husband isn’t disrespecting you, he is disrespecting HER. It’s a shame your sister didn’t have her wishes in writing, but she didn’t, and you will have to accept it. Since you feel you need answers, ask him why he hasn’t followed through on what your sister wanted. Depending upon his answer, decide whether to distance yourself then.
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TO MY READERS:
I wish you all a joyous, meaningful, healthy and safe Christmas. Merry Christmas, everyone! — LOVE, ABBY
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TO MY READERS:
The eight days of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah begin at sundown. Happy Hanukkah, everyone, and a joyous Festival of Lights to all of us! — “LATKAS” OF LOVE, ABBY
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