Bernard Francis Quillin

Bernard “Bernie” Francis Quillin, 12/24/39 – 11/3/24. 

“Bernie” was born, December 24, 1939, in Capitol Heights, Maryland, to Edna May (Howard) and Jesse Thomas Quillin. Bernie was the second to youngest of a large family and grew up in Hillside, Maryland, where at the age of 12, he met the love of his life, Nancy Fellows, at a local teen club. Bernie was a graduate of Suitland High School, class of 1958. 

In 1963, Bernie began his electrical apprenticeship with IBEW Local 26, but his path took a turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army, to serve in Korea. After his honorable discharge in 1964, he returned to Nancy and finished his apprenticeship. The couple married in 1965, and resided in Forestville, Maryland. In 1968, they welcomed their son, Mark Bernard and, in 1970, daughter, Lee “Angie” Anjanette, completed the family.

In 1972, Bernie and Nancy purchased property in Owings, Maryland, where he built the family home and resided for the remainder of his life. His free time was dedicated to enhancing and improving the property, demonstrating remarkable skills in multiple projects. From crafting furniture and installing flooring to mastering brick and stonework, Bernie even designed and constructed a three-car garage in his 70s, showcasing his remarkable talent.

Bernie managed some of the largest construction projects in the area during his forty plus years with the IBEW Local 26, including the Cove Point Natural Gas Plant, Willard Hotel, and the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. He was well known in the industry for his work ethic. 

Bernie is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Nancy; their son Mark (Leslie); daughter Angie Sawyer (Ken); grandsons Travis and Nathan Quillin, and Austin and Ryan Sawyer; sister Gerlie Sellner; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and siblings: Paul, Raymond, George, John, and Shannon Quillin; Ann Meddings; Hattie Theil; Edna Mae Simpson; Margaret Briguglio; Evelyn Kelly; Thelma Quillin; and Edith Kline.

Bernie passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with dementia. His legacy is one of skill, commitment, and family, from his long career as a journeyman electrician, to his deep connection with Nancy and their children. His talents and work ethic left a lasting impact, both on his family and in the many significant projects he contributed to.