Distinct from "heir" in strict usage. A will names devisees; intestacy produces heirs. Both can hold mineral interests post-decedent, but the curative path differs: devisees come in through probated wills + executor's deeds; heirs come in through AOH or heirship judgment.
A devisee's interest vests at the decedent's death (subject to administration) but doesn't become marketable until the will is admitted and any necessary deeds are recorded. A divisive named in a will that's never admitted may have an equitable claim but lacks recordable title.
Specific devises (e.g., "I give my 1/4 mineral interest in Section 12 to my daughter Sarah") are the easiest to clear. Residuary devises (e.g., "the rest, residue, and remainder to my spouse") require the runsheet to know exactly what was IN the residue at the date of death — including minerals not separately listed.
Related
Term
Heir
A person entitled to inherit from a decedent under intestacy.
Document
Will Filed for Record
A copy of a will recorded in deed records to put the public on notice of testamentary disposition.
Document
Executor's Deed
A deed signed by the executor of an estate, conveying property out of probate.