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Quinn -- Elizabeth Reid Quinn, age 90, died March 14, 2001 at her home in Albuquerque. She was a pioneer in the early development of New Mexico's securities industry and the first woman to become an associate member of the New York Stock Exchange. Elizabeth and her husband, Arthur Quinn, opened the first Quinn and Company investment banking office in downtown Albuquerque in 1946 with their savings of $6,000.00, sharing a pay phone with the restaurant next door. By 1979 the firm had grown to 11 offices throughout New Mexico and in Denver, Phoenix and El Paso. Arthur Quinn passed away in 1982. The Quinns literally educated small villages and towns throughout New Mexico in public finance (the issuance of municipal bonds) for public projects of all kinds, especially in school districts, and Quinn and Co. soon became the leading bond house in the State. The firm also handled investments in common stock and other securities. In 1947 it participated in the first public offering of shares in Public Service Co. of New Mexico, and in 1956 became the first New Mexico based firm to become a member of the New York Stock Exchange. When the Quinns retired in 1977 they established another precedent by transferring ownership of the firm to all the employees. Elizabeth Quinn was far more than a successful businesswoman. She was an elegant and generous participant in the social and philanthropic life of the Albuquerque community. She served on numerous boards and committees such as Albuquerque Boys Club, Casa Angelica, Lovelace Medical Foundation, United Community Fund, The Catholic Foundation, Archdiocese of Santa Fe, and the Municipal Redevelopment Task Force of Albuquerque. She was a central figure in fund-raising, especially for Catholic charities and education. In 1990, she received the Distinguished Alumna Award from her alma mater, the University of Wyoming. One of many letters written on her behalf said,"with all the admiration and respect I have for Mrs. Quinn, may I say that I also love her. She inspires that devotion. One seldom encounters a person that combines her qualities of professionalism and humanness." Elizabeth, childless herself, had an abiding interest in the lives of her friends, and especially their children. It would not be an overstatement to describe Elizabeth Quinn as beautiful, inside as well as out. She was perennially voted one of Albuquerque's"best dressed women", and asked to model at fund-raising fashion shows. At the same time she was always there for anyone seeking her favor or counsel, listening and responding with good sense and sympathy. Elizabeth educated many securities professionals over the years, most of whom have remained in the business as a career. Elizabeth was raised in Torrington, Wyoming, one of six brothers and sisters. Among her numerous nephews and nieces is Boyd Dowler, former All Pro tight end for many years with the Green Bay Packers. A sister, Kay Dowler lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming and another, Jean McDonald, in San Diego, California. In Albuquerque she leaves behind many long-time devoted friends, especially the McGuckin and Cronican families, and Dr. Michael Donnellan and wife Beverly; and in California her adopted son, Charles E. Coughlin, Jr. Funeral Mass will be held at San Felipe de Neri Church in Old Town, Monday, March 19, 2001 at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. 1900 Edith NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Honorary Pallbearers are five devoted ladies who cared for Elizabeth for the past many months, Patricia Ramirez, Tyrae Lueras, Irene Trujillo, Marguarite Babcock, and Michelle Johnsonbaugh. The arrangements for Elizabeth Quinn are under the direction of Fitzgerald & Son Funeral Directors.
        Published on: Sat March 17, 2001