[RWebb]

I am sorry to hear about this. Maybe all the effort you have to go thru will distract you - it did for me.

Avoid probate if you can. The answers will depend on your state, and the size of the estate itself. For example, Oregon allows someone to settle a small estate without probate and the person doing the work can take a fixed dollar amount for their trouble. Ohio may have a web site that will help you with this.

Everyone should be familiar with TOD accounts at money mgmt. or investment firms. TOD = Transfer on Death and greatly avoids hassles.