The first full-sized quilt I ever made was a courthouse steps that I gave to my parents. For ten years I heard nothing and never saw it when visiting (we only see them maybe once a year). I assumed it wasn't their thing and that was it.
A couple of years ago my dad sent me pics of their renovated family room and guess what's there? My quilt, framed, on a prominent wall, and the entire room was color-coordinated to it.
You just never know. I think it's worth asking the son what happened to it, just to know for sure.
One more thing - I never buy blankets at Goodwill because I know there is a better, more grateful home waiting for it. I can afford to make a quilt or buy something new, and I have an abundance of love in my life, but not everyone does. Maybe if it went to Goodwill after all it will be loved and appreciated far more than it would have been languishing in a box somewhere.