News Summary
Phyllis ‘Pepper’ Quinn, a beloved figure in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, passed away at 80, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and family connections. A dedicated mother and member of her community, she was known for her cooking and holiday gatherings. A Celebration of Life service is planned to honor her contributions.
Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia
Phyllis “Pepper” Quinn, a cherished matriarch of Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, died at the age of 80 on May 20, 2025. She was mourned by family and friends who remember her warmth and spirit, contributing significantly to the lives of those around her.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Pepper graduated from Central High School in 1962 and spent much of her life in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. She was an active member of the Chattanooga First Church of the Nazarene, where her community involvement left a lasting impression.
Known for her love of entertaining, Pepper enjoyed cooking elaborate meals for family and friends. Her specialties included hearty lasagna, succulent chocolate coconut pies, and delightful tea cakes that became family favorites. She found immense joy during the holidays, particularly at Christmas, when she would indulge in shopping and gatherings with her loved ones.
Family was at the center of Pepper’s life. She dedicated her time to nurturing her children and grandchildren, imparting love and wisdom that will resonate through generations. Pepper is survived by her husband of 61 years, Maurice Quinn, and their three children: Eddie (Lisa) Quinn, Scott (Beth) Quinn, and Michael (Lorrie) Quinn. Additionally, she leaves behind four sisters: Diane Cochran, Janie Cox, Kay (Raymond) Whittle, and Cheryl Marshall, along with eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive her, reflecting a broad legacy of familial love.
In honor of her life, a Celebration of Life is scheduled for June 14 at 3 p.m. at the Chattanooga First Church of the Nazarene, located at 5455 North Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37411. The service will be officiated by Reverend Eric Johnson and Scott Quinn. Friends and family are encouraged to gather from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the church prior to the celebration to offer condolences and share memories.
The arrangements for the service are being handled by the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, situated in Rossville, Georgia. Those wishing to extend their sympathies can do so online at the South Crest Chapel’s website.
Pepper was preceded in death by her father, Gene Phillips, and mother, Dot Phillips. Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who loved her, yet her legacy of generosity, warmth, and love will continue to inspire her family and friends.
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Additional Resources
- The Chattanoogan: Phyllis Pepper Quinn
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- The Chattanoogan: Ivey Jonathan Tyler
- Google Search: Phyllis Pepper Quinn
- The Chattanoogan: Cavitt Linda Diane Hendricks
- Google Scholar: Phyllis Pepper Quinn
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Fort Oglethorpe Georgia
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