lifesaver!!!! Those Hummels could be worth a MINT!!! I have 2 from my Grandmother and each is worth 300-375. Since they are a set and in mint condition, the value goes UP! (Turn them over and see if they have the bee hive)
Estate sales-As you know you can find handlers in the yellow pages, but like anything, you need credible people. One way is to scan the paper's classified ads-They will list estate sales and (in our area) the handler as well. If you are familiar with the area, you know where the more prestigious "estates" are located. When you see a name show up frequently, consider giving them a call. Be aware they are in it to make money and they often devalue your items at a prety good clip. My own Grandmother got ripped of HORRIBLY after my Grandfather died.
There are consignment shops and antique dealers that you can use as well. The antique dealers can give you a "heads up" on possible slutions. They may even want to take a look for themselves. Last but not least-there are always churches and schools doing white elephant sales that could use some nice items as a draw.
If the items that remain are cracked-chipped or glued then the value is almost lost. You may consider making it a donation and use it for your taxes. One last point-I was listening to the Antique Road Show and they said things like the old Coke glasses-Disney Glasses FLINTSTONE glasses are ALL collectibles and are HANDSOMELY priced! Sorry you have to deal with all this-but your Grandmother would be happy to know the things she loved in life found a new home and if its a donation or if there's some cash to be made-she would probably smile knowng she can STILL give to those she loves. Link to "Roadshow"-look around has an link to appraisers.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/roadshow/