Jenna Howe, a 37-year-old beautician, has been awarded £125,000 from her late father’s estate after being cut out of his will. Her father, Roger Howe, a millionaire radio engineering entrepreneur, died in March 2020 at the age of 55. The court heard that Jenna had a “toxic” relationship with her father, who frequently body-shamed her and belittled her throughout her life.
As a result, Jenna developed body dysmorphia and became estranged from her father. Roger Howe left his £1.4 million fortune to his mother, sister, and two nephews, explicitly excluding Jenna from his will. He described her as “lazy, grabbing and bad to my parents.”
Jenna, who is currently destitute and recovering from drug addiction, launched a claim for “reasonable provision” from her father’s estate.
She argued that her life had been ruined by his neglect and cruelty during her childhood. Judge Mark Raeside ruled that the estate should pay Jenna £125,000 to help her turn her life around.
Jenna Howe’s court victory explained
The lump sum includes a £75 weekly maintenance payment for the next ten years, along with help for clearing debts and replacing her breast implants. “Throughout her life, she has been self-conscious about her body,” said the judge. “She has had a body problem ever since she was a young child.”
The court heard how Roger Howe consistently belittled his only child, often in front of others.
Jenna recalled an incident where her father weighed her in front of his lodger. Judge Raeside acknowledged Jenna’s precarious financial situation and noted that her mental condition had rendered her unable to work. He affirmed that Jenna deserved a weekly income to maintain a basic standard of living.
Roger Howe was a technical genius in the field of radio transmitting equipment. He built his first transistor radio at the age of eight and was creating complex AM and FM transmitters by 15. Despite his professional success, his personal relationship with his daughter remained fraught with conflict until his death.
