Jose's obituary
Rev. Dr. Jose Luis "Q." Quinones, 73, passed away on April 3, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia. He was born on December 8, 1951, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. He lived a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Rev. Dr. Quinones graduated from high school in Puerto Rico. In November 1974, he enlisted in the United States Army in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Over eight years and six months of service, he earned numerous commendations including the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon-Korea (3), Rifle M-16 Expert Badge, Army Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award), and the NCO Professional Development Ribbon. He departed the military at the rank of E-5.
Following his military service, he pursued his higher education in New York City. His academic journey laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication to human services and ministry. Rev. Dr. Quinones devoted his life to helping others through social work and public health advocacy. He began his career at VIP Community Services’ Prevention Unit as a social work associate with STRIVE Project II. His natural ability to connect with people and his client-centered approach led to his promotion to Assistant Program Director of the Prevention & Enhanced Services Unit by May 1, 2007. He played a pivotal role in engaging faith communities in the Bronx during the height of the HIV epidemic. Among his many contributions was the development of the Faith-based Saturday Testing Initiative—a visionary program aimed at expanding access to HIV testing across New York City. He often said, “I am here to help the few God has put in my path,” a sentiment that guided every aspect of his work.
Later, he served as Program Coordinator of Pathways to Recovery with Harlem United, an HIV/AIDS service provider agency dedicated to supporting individuals living with HIV/AIDS. There, he facilitated fundraisers through Harlem United’s Staff Make It Happen initiative, He provided compassionate care and support to countless individuals. He was later ordained as a minister and served as a Chaplain with the Anointed by God Chaplain Task Force with the NYC Regional Police. He was also honored with the title of Bishop, reflecting his deep spiritual commitment and leadership within faith communities.
Rev. Dr. Quinones was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his vibrant personality and zest for life. He had an infectious sense of humor and a genuine spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He loved traveling, reading, working with computers, and most of all, spending time with his family. His favorite catchphrase was: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”
He is lovingly remembered by his four children: Gloria Quinones of Ocala, Florida; Norma Quinonez of Augusta, Georgia; Jose Quinonez of Augusta, Georgia; and Dalia Quinones of Albany, Georgia; seven grandchildren: Erica, Gloria, Daylan, Dajah, Jonathan, Tyler, and Chloe; and four great-grandchildren: Ruby, Kai, Julian, and Kali.
He was preceded in death by his father Jose Quinonez; mother Ana Maria Mas; and one sister.
Rev. Dr. Quinones believed that God placed him on this earth for a mission—a mission he fulfilled with grace and determination. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We will forever cherish the memories of his kindness and strength. May his legacy continue to inspire those whose lives he touched so profoundly.
A memorial service honoring Rev. Dr. Jose Luis "Q." Quinones will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Harmony Baptist Church located at 930 Hopkins Street in Augusta, Georgia (30901).
Facebook Live at: Harmony Baptist Church -Augusta https://www.facebook.com/shar…
Acknowledgements & Sympathy correspondences may be sent to: 2908 Pepperdine Drive, Hephzibah, GA 30815.