Brian Wilson Suffering From Dementia, Family Seeks Conservatorship Following Death of His Wife

Beach Boy founder Brian Wilson is suffering from a “major neurocognitive disorder” and should be placed in a conservatorship in light of the recent death of his wife and primary caregiver Melinda Ledbetter Wilson, the rock icon’s family and management team says.

A petition for conservatorship was filed by Wilson’s management team Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court. Wilson’s family confirmed the move in posts on Wilson’s social media accounts, including Instagram, last night.

In medial papers filed with the petition, the 81-year-old Wilson is said to be taking medication for dementia.

“Following the passing of Brian’s beloved wife Melinda, after careful consideration and consultation among Brian, his seven children, Gloria Ramos and Brian’s doctors (and consistent with family processes put in place by Brian and Melinda), we are confirming that longtime Wilson family representatives LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers will serve as Brian’s co-conservators of the person,” the statement reads.

“This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family.

“Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses.”

LeeAnn Hard is Wilson’s manager, and Jean Sievers his publicist. Gloria Ramos reportedly is Wilson’s longtime housekeeper and caretaker.

The petition asks that Hard and Sievers be named Wilson’s conservators to oversee personal and medical decisions. Wilson’s estate was not included in the petition because the assets have already been placed in a trust, with manager Hard as trustee.

When Ledbetter Wilson died last month, Wilson wrote on social media, “My heart is broken. Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost. Melinda was more than my wife. She was my savior. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career.”