Surrounded by his loving family, and his unwavering faith in God, Steven J. Quillen, age 70, died in his family home on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.
He was born and raised in Wilmington, DE, and is the son to the late Elaine L. & John “Jack” F. Quillen. Steven lived a life full of devotion to God, steadfastness amidst trials in life, and being a light in this world.
Steve attended A.I. duPont Elementary School, Springer Junior High School, and graduated from Brandywine High School in 1973. Steve enjoyed his high school years at Brandywine High School, and was loved by many classmates who continue to share beautiful stories of Steve’s kindness and commitment to inclusivity. Steve’s mother Elaine served on the library faculty at BHS for many years, while Steve and his younger brother, Dave, were students. Steve was actively involved in DECA, and enjoyed Debate Club in his years at BHS. Steve graduated from Brandywine College with a degree in business.
During his adolescence, Steve served as a YMCA lifeguard and camp counselor at Camp Tockwogh.
Steve’s early professional life included managing Pomeroy’s department store (Concord Mall), and Bradlees (Pike Creek) department store. Steve honored his love of Creation by changing his profession and becoming licensed in the greens industry. Steve co-owned Grass Roots Inc. with his brother David R. Quillen, until his retirement. Throughout his years of tending the Earth, Steve upheld licensure in his profession, and was active in the Delaware Grounds Management Association (the local chapter of the Professional Grounds Management Association), and the Delaware chapter of Business Networking International. Steve was a well-respected greens industry professional, loved by many colleagues and clients, and exuded unparalleled work ethic, dedicating countless hours to his profession.
Steve was an active member of DeMolay International, serving as Master Councilor of Gunning Bedford Chapter (Wilmington, DE), then as State Master Councilor of Delaware. In these leadership roles, Steve composed and delivered many speeches, notable during Conclaves and dedication ceremonies.
Steve was an active member of Granite-Corinthian Lodge No.34 A.F. & A.M., serving as Worshipful Master in 2005. Steve enjoyed serving in various other Masonic roles over the years including within: Nur Shrine Temple, Scottish Rite Consistory (Wilmington Valley), Equity Council, and O.E.S. Ruth Chapter #19, and the I.O.J.D. The honorable 33rd degree was conferred upon Steve in 2007; a degree very few are honored with noting their remarkable contributions to public life, knowledge, passion and sacrifice.
Steve held many titles in his life, from beloved son, brother, father, uncle, confidant, friend, and neighbor. Steve found immense joy in his favorite role as “Poppop” to his grandson (and family namesake), Jack. Steve enjoyed vacationing in Ocean City, NJ each summer with his family, perfecting his culinary skills, and spending time outdoors teaching about Creation care. Steve instilled generosity within his family, and truly lived out God’s greatest commandment to “Love your neighbor.”
Steve was always supportive of his daughters, and especially proud of sharing the achievement, all as Brandywine High School alumni (Steve ’73), Jen’00 & Jess’13, as well as his brother, David ’78. Steve’s countless moments of unwavering love and support as BHS Marching Band “Cookie Dad”, and “Volleyball Dad” will live on forever.
Steve is survived by his beloved caretakers of the last few years of his life, his daughters: Jennifer Quillen-Strauss (David), and Jessica Quillen (Josh), as well as his grandson, Jack Quillen Strauss; brother David Quillen (Joanne), ex-wife Karen (Bill), supportive sister in law Donna Hiddemen (Bert), and nieces Olivia Hiddemen, Sarah Quillen, Jackie Fennington (Sean), and Christina Quillen, as well as many great nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held on Friday, December 20 from 6-8pm where a Masonic service will be held at 7pm, at McCrery & Harra Funeral Homes, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington.
To honor Steve’s memory, a service will be held at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1530 Foulk Road, Wilmington, on Saturday, December 21st at 10am. Burial will follow at Lombardy Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Steve’s family encourages you to honor his profound impact he had upon many lives by exercising a random act of kindness or planting a tree/plant in Creation, continuing to share the light he shone in this world.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
