Lots of missing information to make reasonable suggestions beyond the wide range of opinions we've seen here.
First, how much are we talking about? Both for tax reasons and what to do with your new funds.
If it's a few thousand to a few tens of thousands taxes probably won't factor in and your not going to make a killing on any short term investments without tremendous risk.
If it's a lot more than that then professional help may be needed.
In the short term put it into something liquid and boringly safe to give yourself time to evaluate your options.
And stay away from anyone that mentions annuities unless they are also telling you to stay away.

Ok. We are nowhere near the death tax level. Both blue collar employees from start to retirement with no stocks or bonds. Sold her house to pay for the nursing home.

As it stands, looks to be about 20k in cash. 5 from the POD account, remainder from the estate.
No IRA or 401k accounts. I have a company pension plan, so never bothered with the rest. I should really start I suppose....