This reminds me of the guy who entered a Day of the Dead quilt in the AQS show back in the early 90's. His quilt was rejected due to the content but there was such an outcry about it that it ended up winning a number of awards eventually. It was Jonathan Shannon's quilt called Amigos Muertos. He had actually won Best of Show (the first time for man I believe) the year before with his called titled Air Show.
It's nice to see that you do this every year. It's a great way to remember and honor your lost loved ones and keep them "alive" for their children, grandchildren, etc. Thanks for posting the photos.