#40: Aretha Franklin
Known as: Gospel, R&B singer
Net Worth: $80 million
Children: 4
Aretha Franklin, the indomitable “Queen of Soul,” graced the world with her soul-stirring music and enchanting vocals. Her journey into the world of music began in her childhood, as she belted out gospel melodies at her Baptist Church in Michigan, where her father served as a minister. Born in 1942, Aretha’s life was a symphony of passion and talent, which sadly came to a close at the age of 76 in 2018.
Aretha was a mother to four children: Teddy, Kecalf, Clarence, and Edward. In her final testament, she bequeathed her cherished piano and invaluable papers to her beloved offspring. However, it’s a tale of three wills that adds intrigue to her legacy. These wills were discovered in various nooks of her home, revealing a complex narrative. Notably, she chose to disinherit her eldest son, Clarence, who had entered the world when Aretha herself was just twelve years old.