What term describes someone who has died leaving a valid will?

The term that describes someone who has died leaving a valid will is "Testate." When an individual dies testate, it means they have prepared a will that specifies how their assets and estate should be distributed among their beneficiaries. This legal document expresses their last wishes and ensures that their intentions are followed upon their death.

Understanding this term is crucial in the context of estate planning and probate law, as it directly impacts how a deceased person's estate will be managed and distributed. In contrast, individuals who die without a will are referred to as "Intestate," and their estate is distributed according to state laws rather than individual wishes. The term "Decedent" is a more general term used to refer to a deceased person, regardless of whether they had a will or not. Lastly, "Executor" refers to the appointed individual responsible for carrying out the provisions of the will, but it does not describe the status of the deceased individual in relation to their will.