Funeral expenses ran $14,000 (even with rented casket – $2,000) recently for the family of a deceased son. Many families can’t afford expenses that daunting. Some countries require cremation (much less expensive). What does the Church counsel us regarding cremation?
"The Church does not normally encourage cremation. The family of the deceased must decide whether the body should be cremated, taking into account any laws governing burial or cremation. In some countries, the law requires cremation.
Where possible, the body of a deceased member who has been endowed should be dressed in temple clothing when it is cremated. A funeral service may be held."
So the church isn't a huge fan of cremation, but it's really up to the family.
My own view is that cremation is an excellent idea, in part for the reasons you cited.
"The Church does not normally encourage cremation. The family of the deceased must decide whether the body should be cremated, taking into account any laws governing burial or cremation. In some countries, the law requires cremation.
Where possible, the body of a deceased member who has been endowed should be dressed in temple clothing when it is cremated. A funeral service may be held."
So the church isn't a huge fan of cremation, but it's really up to the family.
My own view is that cremation is an excellent idea, in part for the reasons you cited.
All the best.