Eileen Honora Quinn

Eileen Honora Quinn September 11, 1927 – December 12, 2024 

Eileen Honora Quinn was embraced by the eternal love of God on December 12, 2024, in Seattle, Washington, surrounded by the loving care of her daughter Patricia, son-in-law Robert, and granddaughter Jackie Smith. 

Born on September 11, 1927, in Inwood, New York, Eileen was the cherished daughter of Irish immigrants Michael from County Longford and Mae from Tipperary and received her deep Irish pride from them. She was the last of the great generation of the magnificent McDermott clan and their spouses. A proud Irishwoman, she shared a lifelong, unbreakable bond with her sisters Mary and Joanie, a special adoration for her brother Eugene, and an enduring love for her many nieces and nephews. 

Eileen’s heart was forever entwined with that of her beloved husband, John Francis (Jack) Quinn, whom she married on May 2, 1953, at Good Shepherd Church. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and service. Jack predeceased her in 2002. 

Eileen’s greatest pride and joy were her eight children: John, Jeremiah, Jimmy, Mary Patricia, Steven, Mary Jo, Andrew, and Mary Virginia. She also held a special place in her heart for her “almost” children: Leslie, Judy, Robert, Kelly, Quentin, Cornelia, and Paul. Eileen was blessed with twenty-six grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren (and counting), each of whom she adored. 

A devoted parishioner of Holy Family Parish in Flushing, Queens, Eileen served as the parish secretary for thirty-five years. After retirement, she and Jack enjoyed many peaceful years in Stuart, Florida. She loved the beach—especially The Ocean Club, where she spent time with cherished family and friends. Eileen also found joy in golf and in caring for her grandchildren, often soothing them to sleep in her nurturing embrace. 

Eileen’s legacy is one of love, faith, and family. Her greatest accomplishment was the profound impact she had on her family, sharing life lessons and leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her memory will continue to guide and inspire her very large, very devoted family. 

Calling hours will be held on January 23, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Pelham Funeral Home, 64 Lincoln Ave, Pelham, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by her dear “sixth son,” Reverend William Sweeney, on January 24, 2024, at 10:00 am at Holy Family Church, 175-20 74th Ave, Fresh Meadows, NY. Eileen will be laid to rest next to “her” Jack at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Yonkers, NY, following the Mass. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Holy Family Parish, Fresh Meadows, NY, in Eileen’s memory.