If an employee or pensioner dies leaving dependent children under 18 years of age and he or she is, at death, a widower or widow, the benefits of this article which a widow or widower would otherwise be entitled to receive shall be paid to the guardian of such children for their exclusive use and benefit. If one child survives, such benefits shall cease when such child attains 18 years of age. If more than one child survives, the benefits shall be divided proportionately among all of such children under the age of 18 years.
N.J.S. § 43:10-18.63