Who inherited Howard Hughes’ wealth? is a question that has been lingering in the public’s consciousness since the 1970s. Hughes was an extremely wealthy man and left no will or immediate family, so his estate was divided between 22 legal cousins, some of whom he never met. Because Hughes had no will, probate law overrode his wishes and the sums were divided amongst them. In addition, one of Hughes’ closest associates, Terry Moore, claimed to be his wife, and did not produce a marriage certificate.
According to the court records, Melvin Dummar, who had served as the heir to Hughes’ estate, died of cancer on December 9, 2018. It is unclear if Dummar inherited anything or not, but he claimed to have given the late billionaire a lift in 1967. At the time, Dummar owned a gas station, and he claimed that he had given the man his pocket change. He produced his will to the police, but the judge denied his claim.
A Mormon will was also presented in 1968, a few days after Hughes died. Hughes had named Spencer W. Kimball, president of the Mormon Church, as the executor of his estate. Kimball was directed to deliver the will to legal authorities in Clark County, Nevada. The will is signed by Hughes. The details surrounding the will are unclear. But, the documents are important, as it allows us to gain insight into the Hughes’ life.