Reverend John Quinn, son of Michael Quinn and Ellen Lyons, was born in Poughkeepsie, New York. He received his education at the Niagara Seminary and the Grand Seminary in Montreal, Canada. Father was ordained November 1, 1883. Eight years after his ordination, he was made pastor of Ilion, where he celebrated his 25th anniversary in the priesthood. Katherine Quinn, his sister, was organist and choir director while he was pastor of Annunciation Church.

Father Quinn died in New Zealand, Australia, February 7, 1923 and was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, next to St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York.