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Ernie Banks' family alleges caretaker coerced him into signing new will

The family of former Chicago Cubs great Ernie Banks, who died last month at the age of 83, alleges that his caretaker persuaded him into signing a new will giving her all his assets.
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The family of former Chicago Cubs great Ernie Banks, who died last month at the age of 83, alleges that his caretaker persuaded him into signing a new will that gave her all of his assets, according to the Associated Press. 

Banks' twin sons, Jerry and Joey, claim that Banks was ill when his caretaker, Regina Rice, had him sign the new will. Rice is also the executor of Banks' estate. From the AP

In a statement, Rice says she understands the concerns of Banks' family. She says the record and those closest to Banks will "dispel any iota of concern regarding my relationship with Ernie and his trust in me to carry out his wishes."

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An attorney told the AP that Banks' family is going to contest the new will.

Last week, the AP reported that Banks' estranged wife, Elizabeth Banks, filed a petition in court in an attempt to prevent Rice from cremating his remains.

Banks, nicknamed "Mr. Cub," spent his entire 19-year career with the Cubs and was the first African-American player in franchise history. He was named to 14 All-Star Games and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.

- Molly Geary