Thomas Kinkade's Wife, Girlfriend Head To Court

SAN JOSE (CBS/AP) -- Thomas Kinkade's widow and girlfriend face off in court on Monday as hearings begin over who will be executor of the late artist's $66.3 million estate.

Amy Pinto-Walsh, who was living with Kinkade and found his body when the 54-year-old died in April, has submitted handwritten notes she says bequeath her his mansion in Monte Sereno and $10 million to establish a museum of his paintings there.

Kinkade's wife of 30 years, Nanette Kinkade, disputes the claims by Pinto-Walsh and seeks full control of the estate. The couple had been legally separated for more than two years when Kinkade died.

The Los Angeles Times reports Nanette Kinkade's lawyers have requested that the probate proceedings be conducted behind closed doors. A ruling on that point is pending.

Kinkade, known as the Painter of Light, accidentally overdosed on alcohol and Valium.

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