of my Late Father’s Estate

Competition Corner

My Journey as the Executrix of my Late Executrix of my Late Father’s Estate

In March 2018, my father passed away suddenly. On top of the shock and heartbreak, I became the Executrix of his estate and stepped “into his shoes” to conclude all his earthly affairs.

Fortunately, he was a very organized man and we knew where his Will and important documents were kept. I gathered a wonderful team of professionals around me (an attorney, accountant and fi nancial advisor) who advised me step-by-step and helped handle the legalities, the Liquidation and Distribution Account, and the dispersal of his assets.

I soon realized how little the average person knows about what is involved in winding up an estate. I also faced the apparent heartlessness of slow and apathetic service providers.

There were many days when I wondered how I would have coped if my dad had not been so organized. How much more painful would the process have been if I’d had to search for every bit of information, or if I didn’t have access to his emails? How would I have known who his different service providers were if he hadn’t listed them?

My advice, to any adult, is to get your affairs in order. Gather your Will and important documents in a safe place and let loved ones know where they are kept. Speak openly with family about your mortality, while you’re able to. By being prepared you can save them a lot of time, energy and emotional pain. I’m eternally grateful that Dad did this for me.