Jim Quinn

APA Florida was very saddened to learn of the unexpected death of James L “Jim” Quinn on June 8, 2013.

Jim Quinn of Tallahassee passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2013 while vacationing in Seneca, SC. Jim was born in Ft. Ord, California and lived in many places around the world while his father served in the U.S. Army. He attended the University of Mississippi where he earned two degrees: Bachelor’s in Education and Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning. He was a member of Delta Gamma Chapter of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity and several honorary organizations.

Jim’s first planning job was in the City of Titusville as city planner for two years. He then spent over three decades with the State of Florida in Tallahassee as environmental planner and administrator with the Departments of Community Affairs and Environmental Protection. Jim spent many years dealing with the issues associated with state Areas of Critical State Concern and particularly with the Florida Keys. His skills as a collaborator, problem-solver and consensus builder served him well in bringing forth solutions that made Florida a better place.

All of Florida has benefited from his dedication and staunch support in the long-term interests of Florida. His work in planning and commitment to preservation of wild Florida touches the lives of even those who never met him. Never pretentious, he had a sense of justice and an understanding of the real world.

Thankfully, his wisdom was shared with all who knew him. Jim’s knowledge, character and humor led him to become a mentor to many of those around him. He never wavered in his beliefs and inspired those around him to strive to do more to protect Florida. Jim was a gentle soul, who lead with a quiet commitment that was infectious. He had a smile, an ear to listen with and a piece of chocolate for when you really needed it.

Jim served the planning profession and APA Florida for many years. Marty, his wife, served as the APA Florida administrative assistant/bookkeeper for over five years. Jim was always at her side volunteering at the annual conferences; when Marty retired, the two of them continued to volunteer to help as needed. He was also a great friend to the FSU Department of Urban and Regional Planning, serving as a student mentor and helping guide young professionals as they started their careers.

Bob Dylan said it best when he sang, "You'll not see nothing like the mighty Quinn."