Who Inherited Dina Merrill’s Fortune?
Dina Merrill, born Nedenia Marjorie Hutton, was an American actress, socialite, and philanthropist. She was born on December 29, 1923, in New York City, and passed away on May 22, 2017, at the age of 93. Merrill came from a wealthy family and had a successful career in both Hollywood and on Broadway. With her passing, many wondered who would inherit her substantial fortune. In this article, we will explore the details surrounding Dina Merrill’s inheritance and the individuals who were fortunate enough to receive a portion of her wealth.
Dina Merrill’s Background and Success
Dina Merrill was born into a prominent family. Her father, E.F. Hutton, was a well-known financier, and her mother, Marjorie Merriweather Post, was the heiress to the Post Cereal Company. Merrill grew up in a world of privilege and attended prestigious schools such as George Washington University and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Merrill’s acting career began in the 1950s, and she quickly gained recognition for her talent. She appeared in numerous films, including “Desk Set” and “Operation Petticoat,” and also had a successful stage career. Merrill’s wealth grew not only from her acting endeavors but also from her marriage to Stanley Rumbough Jr., an heir to the Colgate-Palmolive fortune.
The Merrill-Rumbough Family
Dina Merrill’s marriage to Stanley Rumbough Jr. lasted from 1946 until their divorce in 1966. Together, they had three children: Stanley Rumbough III, David Rumbough, and Nedenia Colgate Rumbough. As Merrill’s children, they were likely to be the primary beneficiaries of her fortune.
Stanley Rumbough III, the eldest son, followed in his family’s footsteps and pursued a career in finance. He worked for various investment firms and eventually founded his own company, Rumbough Investment Partners. It is reasonable to assume that he would receive a significant portion of his mother’s wealth.
David Rumbough, the second son, has kept a relatively low profile compared to his siblings. Not much is known about his professional life or involvement in his mother’s estate. However, as her son, it is likely that he would also inherit a share of her fortune.
Nedenia Colgate Rumbough, the youngest of Merrill’s children, has had a successful career as an actress and writer. She has appeared in films such as “The Other Woman” and “The Stepford Wives” and has written several books. Like her brothers, she would likely receive a portion of her mother’s wealth.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Dina Merrill was not only known for her acting career but also for her philanthropic efforts. She was actively involved in various charitable organizations, including the New York City Mission Society and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Merrill’s dedication to philanthropy suggests that a portion of her fortune may have been allocated to these causes.
Other Potential Beneficiaries
Aside from her children, it is possible that Dina Merrill left a portion of her fortune to other individuals or organizations. She had a wide circle of friends and acquaintances in the entertainment industry and high society. It is not uncommon for individuals to include close friends or trusted employees in their wills.
Conclusion
While the exact details of who inherited Dina Merrill’s fortune may not be publicly disclosed, it is reasonable to assume that her children, Stanley Rumbough III, David Rumbough, and Nedenia Colgate Rumbough, would be among the primary beneficiaries. Merrill’s dedication to philanthropy also suggests that she may have allocated a portion of her wealth to charitable causes. Ultimately, the distribution of her fortune remains a private matter, but her legacy as an accomplished actress and philanthropist will continue to be remembered.
