This is an unofficial version of a Massachusetts General Law.
Section 3-609
The death of a personal representative or the appointment of a guardian or conservator for the estate of a personal representative, terminates his appointment. Until appointment and qualification of a successor or special personal representative to replace the deceased or protected representative, the representative of the estate of the deceased or protected personal representative, if any, shall have the duty to protect the estate possessed and being administered by the decedent or ward at the time the appointment terminates, the power to perform acts necessary for protection of the estate and shall account for and deliver the estate assets to a successor or special personal representative upon appointment and qualification.