I played saxophone at WSMS, and Mr. Quinn always came in as a substitute teacher to assist in our rehearsals. I will always remember him as a wise man who told eye-opening stories like the lessons he learned from his mother and the lessons he learned in band. Even though I no longer play saxophone, the lessons I learned from him carried over not only to my musical pursuits (violin playing) but also to grow as an individual with rationale. May his memory live on, and may our heavenly father care for him in heaven.

I am extremely sad to hear about the passing of Mr. Quinn. I played the saxophone in his band at WSMS from 2001-2002. I always had a tremendous amount of respect for Mr. Quinn even at such young age because of his passion for his job. He could take a group of children with absolutely no background in music to being concert ready in months. He had a high standard and it showed in the music we played. He was truly amazing at his job and touch many lives such as myself. I am very sad to hear the news. My condolences to his family and friends. 

Skip Quinn was one of the most respected, skillful, and admired band directors in this area.  I have known few people that loved his profession more.  He communicated that passion to his students and colleagues alike.  He left a positive mark on the world and he will be missed.  Our condolences to his family and students.
Ron and PaulaTurner

I am so sad to hear this. Mr. Quinn was my one and only band teacher and he made me fall in Love with music, the clarinet and band in general. I can’t believe this. He touched so many lives. Wow. He will be missed😢😢😢

Mr Quinn taught 3 of my 5 children. at wsms.. every concert amazed me how he could pull such great music out of those kids in such a short time... we missed him when he moved onto another school.... I am so sad to hear of his passing. He will be even more greatly missed.

Mr. Quinn was a wonderful mentor to me. I am so sad to hear about his passing. He helped me out in so many ways. He drove all the way out to E. E. Jeter at first to help me as my mentor and then started teaching private lessons to my students. I can’t express how much I appreciated our talks and hearing his stories. He taught me so much, and I am truly blessed to have known him. I have no doubt in my mind that he is conducting a concert band of angels in heaven right now. His family, friends, colleagues, and students are in my prayers.

Our condolences go out to Skip’s family and know that we are praying for you. When I think of Skip, I think of a legacy of musical and Christian integrity. 
Revelation 21:4.

Mr. Quinn was one of the reasons I fell in love with band the way I did. He was so dedicated to his students and pushed each one of us to be the best we could be. He helped start so many people on a journey that would ultimately become their career or touch their life in one way or another. He will be missed!

Mr. Quinn left an indelible mark on me as a musician and as a teenager growing into adulthood. I believe generations of Memphis musicians came from his leadership. He always used to say that "Musical Excellence was our Tradition...what would be our Legacy?" We are his legacy. His leadership will live on through the students that he poured his heart into educating. His ministry was his wisdom, his patience, his compassion, and his passionate love for music. He will be truly missed.

OBITUARY

Henry Bernard Quinn, Jr.

August 1, 1954 – November 28, 2020

Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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