This case seems like it could be pushed through this way, or maybe not..., and it could drag on (while they are refusing to correct "Widowed" on one side, and their other side demanding a Divorce/ Death Certificate). Looks like a closed loop. Or could become one. For many months and years.
Maybe a better way is just to marry and file for a CR-1 visa? Any opinions on that? Then the chances (with CR-1 and then with IR-1 possibly) are much better even if the Immigration drags this case indefinitely?