The short answer is yes. It's actually common for a will's executor to also be one of its beneficiaries. This makes sense, as executors are better able to perform their duties when they are familiar with the decedent's situation. ... The probate court system actually favors beneficiaries serving as executors in some cases.

Can an executor and beneficiary be the same person?

Yes. It's quite common for an executor to be a beneficiary. Consider when one spouse passes away, the living spouse of the decedent is frequently named executor. It's also common for children to be named both beneficiaries and executors of wills/trustees of family trusts.

Can an executor override a beneficiary?

Yes, an executor can override a beneficiary's wishes as long as they are following the will or, alternative, any court orders. Executors have a fiduciary duty to the estate beneficiaries requiring them to distribute estate assets as stated in the will.