Court admits holographic will of David Dean Matthews senior in Cheatham County probate case

The Cheatham County civil docket meeting held on July 1, 2025, focused primarily on the probate of a holographic will for the late David Dean Matthews Sr. The session began with procedural clarifications regarding the case, as the court addressed the withdrawal of a petition to open an intestate estate.

The presiding judge acknowledged the familial relationship with the petitioner, who is the sister of Judge Lockhart Mash, and noted the importance of adhering to legal protocols in this matter. The court was informed that a holographic will, purportedly written by Matthews, had been filed, and discussions ensued regarding the validity of this document.

Counsel for the opposing side, Mr. Gilbert, indicated a willingness to withdraw his previous petition, allowing the court to proceed with the admission of the holographic will. The judge expressed concern over the time constraints but ultimately decided to provisionally admit the will, allowing for the possibility of future contestation.

Witnesses were called to testify regarding the authenticity of the will. Mary Melissa Matthews, the decedent's daughter, confirmed her father's wishes as expressed in the document. Two additional witnesses, Ruby D. Ellis and Pamela Joy Butterworth, provided testimony affirming their familiarity with Matthews' handwriting and confirmed that the will was indeed written by him.

After reviewing the testimonies and the evidence presented, the judge concluded that the holographic will met the statutory requirements for admission. The court provisionally accepted the document as Matthews' last will and testament, with a stipulation that any contesting parties must file notice within 30 days.

The meeting concluded with the judge expressing condolences for Matthews' passing and commending the cooperative spirit among the family members involved. The court then adjourned, with plans to reconvene later in the day.