Michael H. Quinn, Sr.—March 9, 1939– April 21, 2025
Born in Columbia, South Carolina and raised in the town of Loris, South Carolina, Mike was the son of the late William Ray and Geneva Heniford Quinn. During his years at Loris High School, he was a student leader and standout athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball—earning the Most Athletic award as a senior and Most Intelligent senior superlative. His childhood in Loris provided him with many treasured memories with extended family and friends.
After high school, Mike attended the University of South Carolina and served as President of his freshman and sophomore classes, Student Body Treasurer his junior year, and Student Body President his senior year. He was also President of Sigma Chi fraternity, a member of the Blue Key Honor Society and Kappa Sigma Kappa, and received several honors, including the prestigious Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medallion.
After graduating, Mike attended the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he was a member of Phi Delta Phi and served as managing editor of the Law Review. Most importantly, it was there that he met Blanche, the love of his life.
Following law school, Mike began what would become a long successful career as a trial attorney, practicing in the areas of civil litigation, commercial real estate, business transactions, and condemnation law. He served as president of the Richland County Bar Association and the Columbia Museum of Art, and chairman for the March of Dimes South Carolina. He was also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.
He was a devoted husband who cherished his role as a father and “Granddaddy.” Mike shared deep, meaningful bonds with each of his three children and seven grandchildren, relationships he nurtured with love, humor, and unwavering support.
He treasured time with his family, particularly when fishing in the Debordieu creeks, supporting the Gamecocks, attending his grandchildren’s school and sporting events, and family gatherings filled with dancing and good music.
Mike is survived by his wife of 59 years, Blanche Willard Quinn; his three children, Blanche Quinn Richey (Chad), Gregg Quinn Irby (Mike), and Michael H. Quinn Jr. (Dani); his seven grandchildren, Michael Semmes Irby III, Isabel Jane Quinn, Sarah Quinn Irby, Lydia McKinley Quinn, Michael H. Quinn III, Austin Quinn Richey, and Francis Gregg Richey; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Patricia Rae Quinn (Patty) Tuite; and his brother, Timothy Gene (Tim) Quinn Sr.
We will forever miss, but always remember, his kind, loving and generous heart, his warm smile, and those beautiful, blue eyes.
A private service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the charity of your choice. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.
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