The majority of the Duchess of Windsor's estate was bequeathed to the Pasteur Institute, a prominent medical research foundation.
The Duchess of Windsor's Estate Beneficiary
Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, primarily designated the Pasteur Institute as the main beneficiary of her substantial estate. This significant bequest, valued at approximately £5 million, was made as a gesture of gratitude and tribute to France, the country that had provided her with a home for many years.
Key Details of the Inheritance:
- Principal Beneficiary: The Pasteur Institute, a renowned French medical research foundation dedicated to scientific research on disease, vaccines, and biology.
- Estate Value: Her estate was valued at around £5 million.
- Reason for Bequest: This considerable sum was a tribute to France, acknowledging the home and support she received there.
- Royal Family's Share: The British royal family did not receive any major bequests from her estate.
This distribution reflected the Duchess's personal wishes and her long-standing connection to France following her marriage to the Duke of Windsor.
Estate Distribution Summary
| Beneficiary | Share of Estate | Value (Approx.) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pasteur Institute | Most | £5 million | Tribute to France for providing her a home |
| Royal Family | No major bequests | N/A | Did not receive significant portions |
