Dear Ohio,
I truly hate to deliver the bad news, but the named beneficiary takes ALL with no obligation to share a dime. The pension is a contract and although it was a type which was fully revocable while the teacher was alive, once he passed away, it became irrevocable. Maybe the recipient of the pension will be found to be empathetic and cover or contribute to the funeral expenses. Advise the wife to pass the hat and hope that many friends will be sympathetic and generous....tell her to start with the recipient of the pension fund. Best wishes with everything.
Answered on Oct 22nd, 2012 at 11:45 PM