Deceased party on a land deed. What happens to ownership?

[Aldwin De Torres]

Hi BP Family,

I'm asking for a friend in CA. He is 1 of 3 owners on a land deed. He received 75% ownership in 2013, while the other 2 have 12.5% each. Unfortunately, it sounds like 1 of the owners passed away back in 2003. The other person is 86 and still resides in CA.
1) When my friend received the deed, how did a deceased person remain on the deed?
2) What happens to the deceased's ownership?
3) Is there a way for my friend receive full 100% ownership of the land? He has been paying the property tax since 2013 and is current.

Thank you in advance for any input/advice on how to deal with this!