Gary Coleman signed legal papers in 2006 detailing his wishes should he find himself in a life-or-death medical situation - a standard procedure for people with health problems as serious as his. The big issue: Coleman requested that his life be prolonged by artificial means, if necessary. Coleman’s ex-wife, Shannon Price, expressly ignored these wishes when she made the decision to suspend her former hubby’s support (the slang for this is “pulling the plug”). Price filed the documents signed by Coleman in the first place…so it can be assumed she knew their contents.

The document, titled “Instructions for Health Care” clearly showed that Coleman marked the box for “Choice to Prolong Life.” The extended definition of the option reads: “I want my life to be prolonged as long as possible within the limits of generally accepted health care standards.”

Price authorized the termination of Gary Coleman’s life support, which in effect ended his life. Since then, she has been at the heart of a bitter battle for Coleman’s remains and control of his estate. TMZ has obtained a copy of the document if you want to take a look.

Coleman’s death certificate lists his official cause of death as “closed head injury,” which was complicated by “chronic renal failure.” He is listed as “married” on the document. The media learned weeks ago that Gary Coleman actually obtained a divorce, previously unknown, from Shannon Price in 2008.

In the most recent court proceedings surrounding the case, Coleman’s earthly remains are at the source of a rowdy debate. The executrix named in a 2005 will, Anna Gray, has made a motion to see Coleman’s body. Shannon Price, citing the 2007 will she’s presented to the court which names her the executrix, has opposed the action. The court has delayed Coleman’s cremation so Gray will have a chance to view the body, per request.

And the drama played on.