Husband Seeks Control Of Ailing Etta James Money

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — Ailing R&B singer Etta James is gravely ill and her husband of 41 years is seeking a California court order to control more than $1 million of her money.

The 72-year-old singer is best known for the 1961 hit “At Last.” Court documents show she lives in the Woodcrest area of Riverside County, has been diagnosed with dementia and is undergoing treatment for leukemia.

Beverly Hills Dr. Elaine James, who isn’t related, says in court documents that the singer cannot sign her name and she needs help with feeding, dressing and hygiene.

The Riverside Press-Enterprise says a court hearing Friday will consider a bid by husband Artis Mills to control her finances.

She earlier gave power of attorney to sons Donto James and Sametto James, and Donto’s wife Christy, in February 2008. Mills is challenging the power of attorney.