The bank, the insurance company, Allen's lodge, and his employers all had to be notified. It could happen to you Jane's experience was not unusual. Many wives outlive their husbands. In a shocking percentage oi cases the widow's first inheritance is the immediate and inescapable responsibility of arranging for burial space on the day when she is least able to make sound decisions. It is possible that a widow might have to face death-related crises without money, regardless of the family's financial status.
Death automatically ties up bank accounts.
Until the will is read and probated, no property can change hands or be converted into cash. This often compels the widow to approach relatives and friends for loans, which adds to the already overwhelming emotional strain. It is curious that many of us anticipate and plan for life's possibilities, yet neglect one important certainty. We buy and furnish a home. But too often we fail to purchase burial property until fate forces the issue.