Sara Marsden-Ille 

Co-founder & Editor — DFS Memorials 

Sara Marsden-Ille is the co-founder and editor of DFS Memorials as well as US Funerals Online. She has been writing about funeral planning, consumer rights, and cremation costs since 2003, when US Funerals Online launched — one of the first independent funeral consumer resources in the United States. Sara is responsible for editorial standards across the DFS Memorials network and helps to host the Cremation Nation podcast.

Author Contributions on US Funerals Online

Recent Articles Published

Preparing for a loss - how to cope with anticipating a death

Arranging a low-cost, direct cremation in Sacramento, CA

More families today are choosing cremation as their preferred funeral choice.  It can be significantly more affordable than a burial service and offers greater flexibility.   California has a higher cremation rate than most states, with some counties reaching 80%. What factors should I consider when choosing a cremation? You need to consider what kind of…
May 17, 2025
Low cost simple cremation service

Understanding funeral & cremation costs in Los Angeles, CA – Low cost direct cremation

Funeral costs are a concern for many families today.  Not only can many of us not afford an elaborate and expensive funeral, but more people are deciding that they want something more simple and affordable. It can seem overwhelming trying to work out exactly what a funeral will cost in Los Angeles and work out…
May 15, 2025
Documents needed to travel with cremated remains

How to arrange a low cost cremation in Baton Rouge, LA?

If you are worried about funeral costs, a simple cremation is a low-cost funeral alternative.  It offers a simple and affordable solution for families seeking to arrange a disposition on a budget. You can arrange a low-cost cremation in Baton Rouge for just $1,495. This brief article should help you if you are considering cremation…
May 6, 2025
Why direct cremation?

Funeral costs: Arrange a low cost cremation in New Orleans, LA

Are you worried about how to afford a funeral?  With more families financially struggling today, the sudden responsibility of a funeral and the associated funeral costs in New Orleans can be overwhelming. A funeral can be one of the biggest expenses we have in our lifetime, and if a family is unprepared for it, it…
May 6, 2025
Preparing for a loss - how to cope with anticipating a death

Navigating Online Affordable Cremation Services: Top 6 Nationwide Cremation Options

In recent years, the funeral industry has embraced technology, offering families more convenient, affordable, and personalized options for end-of-life arrangements. Online cremation services have emerged as a prominent, affordable cremation option. They provide a spectrum of benefits while still catering to the emotional needs of bereaved families. Here's an overview of the top six online…
April 21, 2025
Low cost simple cremation service

Guide to the 5 Best Affordable Cremation Service Providers in New York City

Arranging a dignified yet affordable cremation in New York City can be challenging given the variety of service providers and pricing structures. With a population of almost 8.5 million, it can be daunting for NYC residents to isolate an affordable cremation service provider.  Especially given that New York does not permit a funeral home to…
April 10, 2025
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As Featured In

 

Cremation Association of North America [CANA]From Tradition to Transformation: Women, Doulas, & the New Shape of Cremation & Death Care.

2/4/2026

 

Answering Services for Directors [ASD] – Outdoor Cremation in Colorado

3/7/2013