So sorry for your loss.
You need to get to the consulate office (closest one is in Houston) to get your visa pushed through, and there usually is an expedite service.
Cheapest fare 7/25 - 7/30 is Air China, a *A partner at about $1900. UA is over $3000. Remember this is last minute travel so it will not be cheap, but you should probably call and ask about bereavement travel. I've done it many times (unfortunately) and it usually is a few hundred dollars cheaper.