1.  Designated beneficiary.  First, to the beneficiary or beneficiaries whom the employee designated in writing, if the written designation was received in the retirement system office or postmarked before the employee's death.  

2.  Surviving spouse.  Second, if no beneficiary qualifies under subsection 1, to the surviving spouse of the employee.  

2-A.  Executor or personal representative.  Third, if no one qualifies under subsection 1 or 2, to the employee's duly appointed executor or personal representative for distribution according to the provisions of a lawfully executed will. This subsection is applicable only if the retirement system is notified of the appointment of the executor or personal representative within 6 months of the date of death of the employee.  

3.  Children.  Fourth, if no one qualifies under subsection 1, 2 or 2‑A, to the child or children of the employee and descendants of deceased children by representation.  

4.  Parents.  Fifth, if no one qualifies under subsection 1, 2, 2‑A or 3, to the surviving parent or parents of the employee.  

5.  Executor or conservator. 

6.  Next of kin.  Sixth, if no one qualifies under subsection 1, 2, 2‑A, 3 or 4, to other next of kin of the employee entitled under the laws of domicile of that employee at the time of the employee's death.