From Slate Magazine · Ilyce Glink · · 1m 10s
Selling Dead Woman's Stuff on eBay
A stay-at-home mom made $20,000 selling her mom's late mother's junk on eBay, now her coworker demands a cut.
In brief
A stay-at-home mom made $20,000 selling her mom's late mother's junk on eBay, now her coworker demands a cut. A stay-at-home mom sold $20,000 worth of her mom's deceased coworker's mother's items on eBay, now the coworker threatens legal action. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
The deal
A stay-at-home mom agreed to buy Pam’s 96-year-old mother’s house contents for $2,000 to clear it out by Monday.
The sale
She sold vintage dishes, furniture, and costume jewelry on eBay and Etsy, making almost $20,000 while keeping half the items.
Pam’s reaction
Pam accused the mom of cheating, demanded money, and threatened legal action after learning the items were valuable.
HR dismissal
Pam’s HR department dismissed her complaint as not work-related, leading to social media threats and letters.
The mom’s role
The mom brokered the deal but let Pam know the items were valuable, causing Pam’s distress.
Legal advice
The mom should stop responding to Pam, save evidence, and consult a lawyer if harassment continues.
The aftermath
Pam may sue or face police action if harassment escalates, but the mom has legally cleared the deal.
The big picture
A stay-at-home mom sold $20,000 worth of her mom's deceased coworker's mother's items on eBay, now the coworker threatens legal action.
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