I made a quilt for my DH so it's not really a memory quilt but I'll describe the things I put on and maybe this will help with your list. In the center block I appliquéd 2 wedding bands & embroidered Families are Forever; other blocks are - a German flag; a Berlin flag; a Canadian flag; a ship; 2 eagle blocks; an appliquéd bike; an appliquéd barbell set. To show where he was born - where he chose to move to - what his favourite things are.
Enjoy your healing process, a wonderful way to share your memories of your Mom.