Age: 73Died: December 25, 2006, Atlanta, GA
Cause: Congestive heart failure due to pneumonia
Family: 6 children named in will; many others contending paternity
Estate mistake: Although he was known for keeping a very tight beat, he left a very loose will and sloppy estate planning, which led to multiple lawsuits and severe tax implications. His will was contested by several parties, partly because he had not updated the document since 2000.
He also left his mansion and music rights to an irrevocable trust to benefit underprivileged students, but the trustees and family are still battling over it. His assets were not well sheltered so an auction of his personal affects was ordered to help settle the tax bill.