Body of O'Keeffe descendant unclaimed

MIAMI, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- The family of Francis W. O'Keefe, a direct descendant of painter Georgia O'Keeffe, has yet to claim his body in Miami months after his death, a caregiver says.

Elena Prieto, who served as a caregiver to the homeless man prior to his death in July, says his survivors have demanded proof the body being held at a Miami funeral home is actual O'Keeffe before they will claim the body, El Nuevo Herald reported Saturday.

Prieto, 61, said she has sent the family all pertinent information in an attempt to gain authorization to have O'Keeffe's body cremated, but has been stone-walled.

''I have sent them his birth certificate, death certificate, diploma from the University of California, Social Security card and certification of military service with the U.S. Navy,'' she said. "But they want more evidence that the deceased is Francis.''

The Cuban nephew of the famed modernist painter, O'Keeffe had lost touch with family members prior to his death likely due in part to his schizophrenia and being homeless.

The Herald said in her attempt to claim the body for cremation, Prieto has unsuccessfully tried to garner the support of Florida congressmen and the state attorney.