If she was a Catholic who deliberately chose to do this in defiance of Catholic discipline (not doctrine) on the final disposition of human remains, such a choice would be problematic. It is more likely though that, even if she was Catholic, she asked for this for sentimental reasons and not out of willful disobedience to the Church. In any case, you are not bound to keep your share of the ashes. You can arrange to have the container with your share of the ashes buried or committed to the sea (not scattered). A priest can bless the burial plot or the container (if committed to the sea). You may also wish to have Masses said for the repose of your mother’s soul.
