Reverend James F. Quinn, 80, was called to the Lord on Friday, February 1, 2013. Born in Syracuse on Wednesday, September 21, 1932, he was the son of Francis J. Quinn and Mary G. (Cull) Quinn. Father Quinn was a graduate of Our Lady of Angels Seminary at Niagara University and ordained a Catholic priest on May 24, 1958. He was a pastor, associate pastor or priest-in-residence at eleven churches throughout the Syracuse area and in Whitesboro and Munnsville. Father Quinn was the Director of the Office for Vocation for nine years and published vocational promotional materials now being used by 40 dioceses and 12 countries, including South Africa, Ireland and England. The area director of the Catholic Youth Organization for 12 years and the Syracuse area CCD, he also served on the board of directors for the United Fund and the Diocesan Continuing Education Committee.

Father Quinn was a chaplain for Morrisville College, Utica Council Chapter 189 Knights of Columbus, Friendly Sons of St Patrick, Sons of Italy, and the Boy & Girl Scouts Council. He served on the Priest Senate and was a summer director at Camp Bethlehem. He was a member of Kiwanis and the Presbyteral Council. He was instrumental in continuing education for clergy, served as vice president for regional school boards, served on poverty task force, and the executive council of community organizations. He was also a seminary trustee, Sacred Heart apostolate throughout the country, and served on the diocesan evangelization office and many parish missions.

Pastor, priest and friend to many, Father Jim was an eternal optimist who thoroughly enjoyed life. From Broadway to Ireland to the Holy Lands and Asia, he was a travel guide extraordinaire who charmed the locals and entertained his tour group. His enthusiasm for adventure and his appreciation of laughter put him in the company of many close friends who shall miss him dearly.

Father Jim was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Fitzgerald.

He leaves behind his sister, Mary Bright; nephews, Patrick (Barb) Bright and Jim (Cindy) Bright; nieces, Karen (Frank) Marrero, Terri (Joe) Bright, Sue (Joe) Barry and Julie (Frank) Rabert; and eight great-nieces and great-nephews.

Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, February 5 from 3 to 6:30 p.m. at The Church of Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter, Syracuse. A Vigil Mass will follow at 7 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 6 at the church. Father Quinn will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Cemetery, DeWitt. Arrangements are by the Buranich Funeral Home, Camillus.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Father Quinn’s name to The Church of Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter, 301 Ash St., Syracuse, NY 13208.