Welcome from TN. Glad you joined. We are here for you and you will find that no matter what you ask someone will have an answer for you.
As for what quilt pattern to use... There are so many to use, or create your own. If there is something that was special to your Mom such as butterflies, horses, dogs, a special flower, whatever it may have been I would try to incorporate that into the quilt. My first quilt ( just last fall) was a wall hanging of 'Antique Spools' in memory of my Mom.
I agree the tears are part of the grieving process and makeing the quilt will help with the healing process. I still miss my Mom and it's been nearly 20 years. I remember a lot of her clothes and still have the quilt she and I made out of scraps from all the clothes she made us over the years. Fond memories.
We are here for you.