I can't wait to see yours finished Donna, I want to make a tree of life for my Dad's Family. it will be a big one, he had 8 children and we have all added to it with both kids grand kids and now even 1 great grand kid! I will give it to my oldest sister who kinda keeps track of all the geneology stuff in the family.
I am still not feeling well enough to sew, but I know my wall hanging will be done in time.
As far as the sun bonnet sue's you got from your Mom I think breaking them into lots of quilts for all the female members is a wonderful idea. maybe you could make the block the center of the quilt and make a sampler around it. Or make a wall hanging as a memorial. I think it would be fun to play with to see how you like how they turn out.
I make memory quilts for many who want a hug from the family member who has passed. I think when you make them the most important thing to remember is the person receiving it, what is their expectations and what are they going to do with it.
I would love to see what you come up with, so be sure to post some pictures.
Marybeth