Charles Manson devotees are trying to crowdfund his funeral - it's not going well

Supporters of recently deceased cult leader Charles Manson have set up an online crowdfunding campaign to ensure he is buried with the "honour, respect and dignity he deserves".

On the website GoFundMe, devotees said the appeal is aimed at giving aid to Manson's only known relative Jason Freeman, 41, who recently said he would seek to hold a "proper burial".

Manson died of natural causes at age 83 on Sunday (19 November) after spending 46 years in prison. His body remains in the custody of the sheriff's office in Kern County, California. Under state law, his next of kin has 10 days to make a decision about what happens next.

The appeal – titled 'Please Help my friend Jason' was set up by an individual named John Jones.

"Let's all show Jason and his family that not only are we still here but we're ready to be a part of this moment in history of freeing Charles from the same system that did everything in their power to destroy him," the crowdfunding page stated.

"We will not sit back and let them throw Mr. Manson away like trash. His whole life he lived with the pain of feeling unclaimed. We must not let this happen in death. Together we can help Jason bring his grandfather home and prove to the world Charles was loved and will be claimed!"

It added that costs would go toward any lawyer's fees and travel arrangements. At the time of writing, things were not looking hopeful. It has raised just over $500 of a $15,000 goal.

"Support is rising for this campaign," claimed the website.

In 1971, Manson was found guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder after members of his death cult killed seven people in 1969, including pregnant actor Sharon Tate. He later received first-degree murder convictions for two additional deaths.

Manson was sentenced to death for his role in the murders but the ruling was changed to life in prison after California dropped the death penalty in 1972. He was denied parole a dozen times.

Despite the horrific legacy, Freeman has told US media he is still hoping to claim the body.

"I'm going to move towards having a proper burial," he told the Daily News on 20 November. "I will definitely speak with the inner circle of people who love my grandfather and who may know more of where he would want to be. I'm working on doing my part."