No, you do not have to file a joint return.
You can still file as Married Filing Separately but you will need to file his return as he normally would but mark his date of death on the input for his return. I am sorry for your loss.
As far as your dependents, it will be up to you as to who claims them. As long as you meet the requirements to claim them as dependents, you can claim them on your return instead of on his return.
Dependent qualifications
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