Well the situation could be changed if:
1. his family follows through
2. some of his former teammates or colleagues in the league decied to pick up the ball
3. some of his fans pick up the ball.
As you say, no one should be forced to do so, ie taxed to mark his grave, but those who cared about him, family, teammates, fans can if they wish. None of us are guaranteed anything here on earth after we died. It is up to those who knew us to honor us or dishonor us as they will.
I don’t see why is needs to be funded by taxpayers by some local govt assessment. Plenty of volunteers could step up. As for the family, perhaps they don't have the means?