Bernard Joseph Quinn, Jr.

Bernard Joseph “Bernie” Quinn Jr., 87, of Powell, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Bernie was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Bernard Quinn and Alice Pelaccio Quinn. He graduated from Highland Falls High School and attended Orange County Community College before continuing his education at the University of Miami, where he was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

Bernie devoted 20 years to the United States Air Force, serving during the Cold War in nuclear missile and space systems. His assignments took him across the United States and overseas, including Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, Shemya, Alaska, and RAF Bentwaters and RAF Woodbridge in England.

During his Air Force career, Bernie earned numerous decorations and distinctions, including the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Reserve Medal, Combat Readiness Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with four Oak Leaf Clusters, and National Defense Service Medal. He also earned the Master Missileman Badge, Officer Aircrew Badge, Space Badge, and Master Rating.

After retiring from the Air Force, Bernie continued his career with Lockheed Martin, working in Washington, D.C., Denver, and later Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Following his second retirement, he had more time for the many interests that had always filled his life. He collected and restored antique clocks and was a member of Chapter 42 of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors.

Bernie was endlessly curious and had no shortage of passions. An avid sportsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and tied his own flies. He gardened and read the works of William Faulkner and James Michener. He was a devoted Miami Hurricanes fan and an active stock trader. He loved dogs, especially the English Setters he had for many years and, later, his Beagles. Music was another pleasure, with Sonny & Cher among his favorites.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; his son-in-law, Jeremy Easterday; and his granddaughter, Ava Easterday.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Cook Quinn, and their daughter, Alice Easterday. He is also survived by his son, Bernard Joseph “Joey” Quinn III and his wife, Trenda; his daughter, Candice Russell and her husband, Scott; his grandchildren, Coral Quinn, William Russell, Cam Quinn, Brody Easterday, and Chelsea Easterday; and his cousin, Karen Quinn Thompson and her husband, Norm.

The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the staff of The Lantern at Morning Pointe for the excellent and compassionate care they provided Bernie during the final two months of his life.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel from 4:00pm until 6:00pm. Interment will take place Friday, October 23, 2026, at 1:00pm at Greenwood Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee, with full military honors. 

Condolences can be left for the family at www.mynattfh.com

Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Bernard Joseph "Bernie" Quinn, Jr.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel * 2000 Powell Drive * Powell, TN 37849 * (865) 362-5382 * www.mynattfh.com