Jean Quinn

Jean Heidt Quinn, civic volunteer and organizer, devoted mother and grandmother, died on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at the age of 84 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Jean was the first child born to the late John and Francis (Kotteman) Heidt. She attended St. Agnes Academy for high school and was a graduate of St. Mary’s College. Jean met and then married Richard Quinn, who passed away in February, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in 1961. They moved to Marion, IN, for 13 years before returning to her hometown in 1977. As a third generation Indianapolis resident, Jean was deeply involved in the city and loved introducing new residents to all it had to offer. Jean’s hallmark was her love and promotion of Indianapolis and her ability to build lifelong friendships. She followed the example set by her mother and began a lifelong career of volunteer work and cultural advocacy. She was well known for innovative and relentless fundraising, her organizational prowess, and creative event production. Jean was an active member of a number of organizations including the Children’s Museum Guild, the Junior League, the Garden Club, the Christamore Aid Society and the Brebeuf Mother’s Association, among others. She chaired hospitality and protocol committees for the National Sports Festival and the Pan American Games. She was an involved parishioner at St. Luke Catholic Church and served on the Building Committee for the construction of the current church. A staunch advocate for the arts and the city, Jean’s board of directors work included Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Women’s Committee, and was the first female President of Woodstock Country Club. She was a long time member of the Marquette Manor Board of Directors where she eventually became a resident. Holidays were a favorite time of year for Jean during which she loved to bake, decorate, and celebrate with her friends and family. Her Christmas coffee cakes were prolific and legendary. She took great pride in being an involved grandmother in each of her grandchildren’s lives and activities. Jean is survived by her children Michael (Betsy), Heather (Laura), John (Jeaneane); her 4 grandchildren, Jack, Olivia, Abby, and Johnny; and her 3 siblings Jack Heidt (Bonnie), Mary Clare Broadbent (George), and Steve Heidt (Nancy). A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Peace Mausoleum Chapel. A public Memorial Mass will be announced and celebrated at St. Luke Catholic Church at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested in Jean’s name to Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. Online condolences available at: www.leppertmortuary.com.