Astor to give bulk of fortune to son

NEW YORK, June 24 (UPI) -- Brooke Astor, the world-renowned philanthropist and symbol of New York high society, plans to give most of her vast fortune to her son, Anthony.

The New York Times reported that Astor, who turned 105 in March, plans to give millions to New York City public schools that allow selected teachers to travel abroad.

Until recently, details of Astor's will were unknown to all but a few. The document was at the center of a legal battle among Astor family members regarding the Astor's care.

Astor's late husband, Vincent Astor, was accused by a grandson of neglecting Mrs. Astor while he took advantage of her fortune. Also at the forefront are questions as to whether Astor was mentally competent when she signed amendments to the will in 2003 and 2004.

The Times said details of the will became public because Astor's frail condition has been showing what could be a final decline. Other beneficiaries of Astor's will include the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the New York Zoological Society.