What Happens If I Can't Find Something Described In The Will

[kkcornett]

My huband left a particular item to a friend and I can't locate it--for the life of me-- in our home. It is a musical instrument. What am I supposed to do as executrix of the will?

[lwpat]

If the item no longer exists or is no longer owned, that part of the will is said to be adeemed. That is a fancy word for the gift fails. You do nothing.

[jk]

if the item was no longer owned by the deceased, then it cannot be given according to the will.

Wills often do not get updated to reflect changes in possession of items. All that can be done is look for it and if it ever shows up, the guy gets it. If it cannpt be found, it must be presumed it was either lost, stolen, given away or sold and the will not changed to reflect such activity.