DEAR ABBY: I have a family issue concerning the recent, untimely death of my only (younger) brother, who died of pneumonia in Georgia. His wife had him cremated the following day instead of having a funeral.

She didn’t inform his immediate family about it until it was over. Was that legal? And was it the right thing to do? — NO FAMILY CLOSURE

DEAR N.F.C: Please accept my sympathy for the passing of your younger brother. When the sibling is younger, the loss can be particularly poignant.

When a married individual dies, it is legal for the surviving spouse to determine what will happen to their loved one’s remains.

We don’t know if the subject of funerals, memorials, burials or cremations was ever discussed between your brother and his wife.

If you are wondering, rather than judge her, ask her. He may have expressed a wish not to be put into the ground, or he may have been cremated for financial reasons. While you are at it, ask if she’s planning any kind of memorial. If she isn’t planning anything, you may want to host one for yourselves.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.