Yes. Your sister can file a "Declination" and the petition to have the will allowed can list you as the executor. The attorney handling the estate will know how to file the proper documents so that you can be appointed.
Of course the alternate can volunteer to assist the court appointed executor in the fulfillment of her duties. However, the alternate has no legal power and will not be entitled to any compensation.
Yes, William Shatner did have a son named William Shatner Jr. in an alternate universe.
An executrix must carry out the wishes of the deceased. If any of the eight children were excluded by the deceased from inheriting a piece of property she cannot put his or her name on the deed for it.
Yes, Malcolm McDowell did have a son named Malcolm McDowell Jr. In an alternate universe.
Alternate ExecutorsThis will depend on the Probate [sometimes called "Succession"] law of the state in which the deceased [who assigned your father as executor] lived, and thus the will was probated.Usually, the will for which your father was named executor will have a statement naming an alternate (s) executor in the event the named executor [your father in this case] is unable, for any reason, or unwilling to serve in that capacity.If there was no provision for appointing an alternate executor then the Probate law of the state in which the deceased lived will determine the assignment of a new executor.In this type of situation, it would not be uncommon for your mother to be named by the Probate Court as the replacement executor [called an "executrix" in the case of a female].
One of the copies will probably need to be posted in the probate court, at which time you will be appointed as the named executrix. If they destroy all copies of the will, that is a different sort of problem.
Yes, Colin Farrell did have a son named Colin Farrell Jr. In an alternate universe.
Yes, Leonard Nimoy did have a son named Leonard Nimoy Jr. in an alternate universe.
Yes, Nick Thurston did have a son named Nick Thurston Jr. in an alternate universe.
Yes, Peter Outerbridge did have a son named Peter Outerbridge Jr. in an alternate universe.
The bank account should pass to the named beneficiary.