Barbara Quinn

From an early age, Barbara Scott Quinn was an independent, freethinking spirit with only a passing interest in following the rules. She never encountered an obstacle she could not conquer or at the very least, circumvent. Her strength and confidence was inspiring and powerful. A wild flower in a field of reeds, moving not with the wind but to her own cadence, forever free of the constraints that bind the rest of us.

Born, March 17th, 1935, Barbara had a passion for city life and explored her hometown of Philadelphia with zest; sometimes by foot, sometimes by train, and even on occasion, by horse. An ambassador for all, she navigated the streets of Philly with family and friends in tow to find the hidden gems in the city she loved.

Her marriage of 59 years to her beloved Edward (Jerry) was one of love, generosity, and constant interludes of humor. They were deeply committed and supportive of one another throughout the years. Their partnership was the gold standard to be admired and emulated.

To say her life was full would be an understatement. While raising five children, Barbara enrolled at Rosemont College and graduated in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts. She had a varied career that included teaching Sunday school, working as an administrator for the Philadelphia Art Museum, serving as a case manager for Big Sister, a communications manager at Simpson & Thatcher law firm in New York City, and as a property manager in Kiawah Island, SC. She volunteered in her community with several organizations in a variety of capacities, from the PTA, to her local food bank, to assisting at the voting polls.

Barbara had many hobbies and was willing to try anything but it was cards that was her true passion, and she was a master of the game. Always curious about other cultures she made trips all over the US and abroad from Maine to California and from Egypt to Russia.

Nothing was truly more important and valuable to her than her family. Barbara’s love was strong, constant, fierce, and unwavering. She was a true matriarch to clans of both Quinn and Scott.

Barbara died peacefully at home in Pittsburgh, PA surrounded by her loving family on May 24, 2021. She is survived by her sons Edward R. Quinn, Jr. (Sherry, Woodbine, MD), Duane S. Quinn (Karen, Naples, FL), Gregory T. Quinn (Ellen, Pittsburgh, PA), a menagerie of grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as a great-granddaughter.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edward R. Quinn, son, Stuart D. Quinn (Patricia, Murrieta, CA) and daughter, Karen A. Quinn. A memorial will be held in Philadelphia. Those wishing to honor Barbara’s memory can make donations in her name to PathWays PA (https://pathwayspa.org/donate/).