This word is frequently used for a deceased person, testate or intestate. A deceased person; one who has lately died. Etymologically the word denotes a person who is dying, but It has come to be used in law as signifying any defunct person, (testate or intestate,) but always with reference to the settlement of his estate or the execution of his will
DECEDENT
TheLaw.com Law Dictionary & Black's Law Dictionary 2nd Ed.