It may indicate that the child has moved elsewhere and has not been heard from for some considerable time. It is more likely, however, that the testator would leave an equal part to that child and the court would probably have charged the executor with locating the child. Guardians are appointed to protect the interests of children and, in some cases, young widows. Most often, the guardians appointed by the court are relatives of the deceased or of the spouse. A different surname of a guardian may be a clue to the maiden name of the widow.
Witnesses are important.
By law, they cannot inherit in a will, however they may be relatives of the deceased. It is not uncommon to find an in-law as a witness. Bondsmen involved in the settlement of an estate may also be relatives too. If the wife of the testator is the executrix of the estate, the bondsmen are usually her relatives. Obviously, there are many things to consider when reviewing wills and probate packet contents.