My father, who was neither notorious nor a criminal, but also not a Catholic. He was given a Catholic funeral mass and is buried in a Catholic cemetary. He was baptized in the Ukrainian Orthodox church. He and my my mother eloped and had a civil wedding ceremony. Later they were “married” at the side alter of a Catholic Church. Having a Catholic funeral mass brought great comfort to my mother and the rest of the family. ( Not sure my Dad was too pleased with it). I appreciate my pastor’s compassion at that difficult time.
Although my Dad never was member of the Catholic church, maybe the pastor allowed the mass because I am a practicing and active member. I don’t know.
What’s the rest of the story OP?
I know that using the church just for rituals is discouraged and frowned upon. Like those who just want to come and use it for marriage, baptism and funerals.
And why would a non practicing Catholic want to be buried from the church?