Thomas Joseph Quinlan

On September 4, 2024 Thomas Joseph Quinlan of Covington, Louisiana took his final breath after a lengthy and difficult battle with Lewy Body Dementia. His wife of nearly 50 years was at his side. He was 70 years old.

Tom grew up in McLean, Virginia where he enjoyed playing sports and learned to play guitar which became a lifelong passion. After graduation from McLean High School, he attended SUNY at Delhi and ultimately graduated from the University of Delaware with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and Marketing. Tom married his high school sweetheart, Cynthia Slover, and started his lifelong career with GE in Electrical Utility Sales. Together they had two sons, David and Brian Quinlan.

Tom had many interests that brought him joy in life. He taught himself to sail and soon discovered a passion for sailboat racing. He was a member of the Gulfport Yacht Club and the Pontchartrain Yacht Club where he served as Commodore for two years. He was also a member of the Corinthian Sailing Association. Ever the car enthusiast, Tom attended the Skip Barber Racing School and began racing Spec Miatas and Formula Fords. He was also a member of the Porsche Club of America. Music played a central role in Tom's life. He was a talented guitarist and loved playing the blues. He felt fortunate to make music with many local musicians over the years. He was also on the board of the Friends of the Dew Drop to preserve the heritage of the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall in Mandeville, Louisiana.

Tom had a wonderful sense of humor, an infectious smile and a kind heart. He was intelligent and talented. He loved his family and loved being a father and grandfather. His death leaves a terrible void for those who loved him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Romaine Quinlan, a brother Michael Quinlan, and a sister Barbara Sheppard. He is survived by his wife Cynthia Quinlan, his sons David and Brian (Natalie) Quinlan, a sister Dorothy (Ralph) Farley and three grandchildren Owen, Vivienne and Alanna Quinlan, nieces, and a nephew.

After cremation the family will take Tom on one final sail to scatter his ashes and celebrate his incredible life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tom's memory to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.

Lastly, the family would like to thank the wonderful people at St. Tammany Hospice, especially Kim, Regie and Peg, and our friend Holly Williams. Your kindness and compassionate care for Tom helped make the unbearable almost bearable