James Joseph Quinn

James Joseph Quinn, 83, passed peacefully on October 4, 2020, with his children by his side in Charleston, South Carolina.  His loving wife, Patricia, preceded him in death. 

James was born to Michael and Mary Quinn on May 8, 1937 in Brooklyn, New York.  He grew up in Bay Ridge with siblings, John, Francis, Thomas, Catherine, the late Michael and the late Margaret Quinn.  James enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps upon graduation from high school, served in aviation maintenance in Japan, and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.  After completing his military service, James attended New York University where he graduated with a degree in Business Management.  Professionally, James enjoyed a long and successful career in IT sales and consulting in New York City.  Upon retiring, he returned to college and studied French, Biology, and Chemistry.  He relocated to Charleston, South Carolina in 2014 and gained a level of notoriety singing under the stage name, Jean Jacques.  Jean Jacques merged James’ interest in the French language with his love of music.  He was a local celebrity, performing at nursing homes, churches, the Mount Pleasant Senior Center, the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, and in many other venues for countless audiences. 

In addition to the French language and music, James enjoyed traveling, science, and more than anything, bringing people together.   He is survived by his children, Tricia and Brian, his granddaughters, Kristin, Reagan, and Madison, siblings, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.  

A wake will be held at Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Home in New Hyde Park, New York from 5-8pm on October 21st.  James will be laid to rest during a funeral at Notre Dame Catholic Church in New Hyde Park at 9:15am on October 22nd.  Following the funeral, James will join Patricia at rest in Saint Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project.