First of all, my deepest sympathy. My daughter, the lawyer, handled everything for me when her sister died . Every state has guidelines how to "probate estates." First paid is the funeral. If there is any money left-then the bills get paid. Even if you just call a lawyer to get information on the rules in your state,and how to get them you won't be guessing. I assume there was no will. Two years after my daughter's death, I am still getting bills for her. I think that is crazy, where have they been, who lets a bill go over a year before billing for payment! I just send them a letter telling them they are too late, she died over a year ago. Case closed.