If she's intent on using a local LAer, there should be some LA quilter's in her area. She can check with a local quilting guild - they'd know who is there.
Most of us charge by the square inch. As long as there are none of those thick rubber designed t-shirts, I'd suggest an allover design. It would not detract from the t-shirts, and hold everything together well for a long lasting memento. It can be done through the mail with e-mail consultations with photos before sending the quilt. Funny thing....most of us quilt for people outside of our immediate area. Quilts are going all over the country as I write.
Please give her my condolences. I can't imagine loosing one of my kids.