Eileen A. (Looney) Quinn, 68, of Paxton, passed away on March 23rd, surrounded by her family at UMass Memorial Hospital.

She was born on September 24, 1957, the daughter of the late Eleanor F. (Donahue) and Michael F. Looney, Sr.

Eileen was a graduate of Wachusett High School, class of 1975. She would go on to graduate from both Anna Maria and Assumption College, where she earned multiple graduate degrees and developed a passion for education. Eileen was an incredibly knowledgeable advocate for many in the special education field. During her tenure with both the Leicester and Worcester Public Schools,  Eileen held numerous roles as a Special Education Teacher, Director of Support Services, School Psychologist, 504 Coordinator, and Team Chair, all culminating with her becoming Assistant Director of Special Education for the Worcester Public Schools. Her remarkable 38-year career in education that led to her receiving the key to the city upon her retirement.

Eileen deeply loved and always looked forward to spending time with family. Some of her favorite moments were spent at the family house in Dennisport, MA, especially with her grandchildren. She loved building sandcastles on West Dennis Beach, getting ice cream at the Sundae School, sneaking the kids to Stage Coach Candy, buying muffins by the bulk from Woolfies, and treating them to many trips to the go-karts, trampolines, and bumper boats. Additionally, she enjoyed trips to the Anchorage in Ogunquit, Maine, during school vacation week with her two sons. She also enjoyed her annual trip to Mount Washington on Memorial Weekend. Eileen enjoyed hosting family gatherings, no matter the holiday. Her Christmas Eve parties were second to none as far as decorations, food, and the occasional appearance by Mr. & Mrs. Claus. However, her true passion in life was supporting her two sons. Eileen was always traveling to cheer them on at their sporting events across New England, whether it was a hockey rink or baseball field.

Eileen will be missed by many, including her husband of 42 years, Thomas P. Quinn; two children, Thomas P. Quinn Jr. and his wife Laura, of Rutland, and Timothy M. Quinn, of Worcester; brother Michael F. Looney Jr., of Paxton; three grandchildren, Riley Pearl Quinn, Thomas P. Quinn III, and Kennedy Paige Quinn.

Family and friends are welcome to a celebration of Eileen’s life with visiting hours on Thursday, March 26th, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Fay Brothers Life Celebration Home, 1 West Boylston Street, West Boylston. A funeral Mass will be held Friday, March 27th beginning at 10:00am in St. Columba Parish, 12 Richards Ave, Paxton.  Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave, Paxton.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Eileen’s name to Dana Farber Multiple Myeloma Clinic. 450 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215. Link: fundraise.myeloma.org