In the absence of a parent.Will my siblings and I be separated?

im sorry to hear about your parents. i was in almost the same boat. my mother passed in 07' from kidney failure and my 4 brothers and sisters father walked out. me being the oldest (19 at the time) had to file for guardianship and be fit according to the court before having it granted. papers need to be filled because if your mother passes you need to make sure their are court documents to protect you from foster care and being in the system..