This is my first-person account of serving as an executor—honest, practical, and written from Kansas City for families facing real decisions. I include takeaways where I can and will expand this into a fuller guide over time.

  • Buffet table with fruit, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and deviled eggs served at the Celebration of Life at Grand Street Café.
  • White vase with yellow roses, lilies, and hydrangeas at a Celebration of Life, next to a framed photo of the deceased.
  • Framed photographs, yearbooks, business memorabilia, and family mementos displayed on a table at the Celebration of Life.

When the End Feels Heavier Than the Beginning

September 25, 2025|

I thought the hardest part of being an executor would come early on. Instead, I’ve learned that as the estate nears completion, the final stretch carries its own kind of weight.

  • Front view of estate house with new roof and improved landscaping after sale, showing European village charm.

From Frustration to Relief: Selling the Main House

August 21, 2025|

Selling the main house looked quick on paper, but as an executor, every step felt longer and heavier than it was. From lowball offers to lessons about market value, the sale carried both frustration and relief.

  • A grouping of antiques, decorative items and pahintings.

Closure Is Complicated

May 16, 2025|

Being an executor means progress comes with an asterisk. The second house closed, the auction went live, and yet closure remains complicated.

Need Guidance on Your Executor Duties?

Serving as an executor can be complex and overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re managing an estate and would like trusted support, we’re here to help.

Contact us today by filling out this form, and our team will guide you through every step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Because the court must first validate the will and officially appoint you. Attorney scheduling, probate filings, and court backlogs can stretch the process for weeks—or even months—before you’re legally able to act.
Often, yes. Until you’re appointed and have access to estate funds, you may need to cover urgent expenses like cremation, utilities, or insurance. These costs are usually reimbursable once estate accounts open.
Inventory and secure items right away. Photograph jewelry, collectibles, and heirlooms, and limit access to avoid loss, theft, or disputes later.
Think of it as a part-time job layered onto daily life. You’ll manage properties, bills, vendors, and beneficiaries—while also dealing with grief and unexpected setbacks. Momentum on small tasks helps keep progress moving.

Yes—an experienced probate attorney is invaluable. They’ll guide filings, deadlines, and distributions, help avoid costly mistakes, and give you clarity in a complex process.