captiveguru- my sincere condolences to you.

A friend passed away from cancer three years ago. She had specifically told me how much she dearly wanted to go compete in a 24 hour sailing race in Australia that I've participated in for the previous 8 years. It's a very special and unique race, specifically designed as a fundraiser for cancer research.

Unfortunately, she passed before she could make the trip. Her sister agreed that I should take a small part of her along with me to Australia, so I could scatter some ashes on the lake during the race. I was just one of about a dozen people who shared her ashes in special places around the world.

After researching online (see calrick's comments above), I made it happen.

It may not have been needed, but I got a copy of her death certificate, and attached it to the envelope with the ashes, and put it in my carry on. I didn't say anything to TSA; but was prepared to address the issue. Since the envelope was easily scannable by TSA, nothing came of it.

The experience of sharing the ashes during the race was powerful, and poignant though. The emotional toll had me (and everyone else on the boat) crying and smiling at the same time. I have a wonderful photo of the moment, but don't know how to add it to this post, sorry.

Best wishes to you!