In Loving Memory of Jeanine Kay Henoch
“Jeanie” • “Mama Vanilla”
April 15, 1949 – August 29, 2025
On a spring day in 1949, Peter and Loraine Quinn welcomed into the world a bright light named Jeanine Kay Quinn. Known lovingly by many names—Jeanie to most, Mama Vanilla to her friends in Jamaica (a given nickname for her famously white hair)—she brought laughter, warmth, and just the right amount of mischief to every room, every beach, and every heart she touched. On Friday, August 29th, 2025, Jeanie began her next great adventure, leaving behind a legacy stitched together with love, humor, and unforgettable memories.
If you listen closely, you might still hear her singing “deedely, deedely, deedely, dee” or catch the unapologetic notes of her favorite song, “F**k You” by CeeLo Green, echoing through the sky. Because Jeanie didn’t just live: she lived out loud.
Jeanie was a rare kind of soul. Honest (sometimes too honest), hardworking, sweet, loyal, large spirit, and delightfully stubborn. She was the queen of giving big hugs. With her bright blue eyes, radiant snow-white hair, and her signature hand gestures (the middle finger and thumb), Jeanie made sure no one ever forgot her.
A true adventurer at heart, she left footprints in more places than most ever dream of visiting. From the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica, Mexico, and throughout the Caribbean, her heart always led her back to Negril, Jamaica, a second home where she proudly earned her name “Mama Vanilla” and became an official “Jamerican”. No matter the destination, Jeanie collected not just memories, but friendships. Everywhere she went, people were drawn to her light and blessed to have met her.
Jeanie perfected the art of bending the rules. Whether that meant climbing ropes she probably shouldn’t, sneaking into “Do Not Enter” zones, or “borrowing” salt and pepper shakers as if they were souvenirs. She was the undisputed buffet smuggler of M&M’s and cookies, and she always had an “old lady mint” at the ready for anyone in need.
She danced freely. She laughed often. She played cards like a champ (even when she lost), and cherished her weekly rituals, from Ritz Cracker Chicken at the Cracker Barrel on Wednesdays to visiting her dear friend Holly to car shows, garage fix-it sessions, and lunches at Culver’s with the love of her life, Bob. NASCAR was more than a pastime; it was a passion. And she meant it when she said she’d rather lose money on a race than watch a driver she didn’t like win.
Jeanie’s work ethic was unmatched. From early days in beauty school (briefly, after the pink and green hair incident), to slinging donuts and coffee at The Donut Hole, to waiting tables at Dagwood Restaurant, working in Kmart’s shoe department, and later at Romance Foods. She ultimately retired from Kenosha Hospital in 2016, where her dedication and wit left a lasting impression on so many.
Her greatest pride and joy, however, was her family. Married to Ronald Henoch Sr. until his passing in 1995, she raised three incredible children: Ronda (Norman) Hoening, Shaun (Frankie) Henoch, and Ronnie (Janika) Henoch. Her grandchildren: Jacob, Joshua, Brooklyn, Maddie, and Lily, meant the world to her, as did her great-grandchildren: Jaiden, Olianna, Avery, and Nora. She was a sidewalk chalk champion, a hula hooping hero, and an average (but enthusiastic) cart wheeler. Her great-nieces Mackenna and Alexandria will carry her lessons and her sass into the next generation.
Jeanie’s sisters: Janet (Claire) Adkins, Jerl (Mike) Misurelli, and Judy (Mike) Matye were more than siblings; they were her best friends, fellow adventurers, and lifelong coffee clutchers. She adored her many nieces and nephews and spoiled her grand-dogs Riggs, Charlie (both now in heaven with her), and Chloe and Lexi, who will certainly miss their daily treats.
Her Family (her chosen family), too many to name, held a dear place in her heart. So many people looked up to her as a mother and friend. Why wouldn’t they? She was the best, as special as they come, and had a rare gift for making everyone feel like they belonged.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Beth and the entire team at Hospice Alliance for their extraordinary care and compassion. In Jeanie’s memory, donations can be made to Hospice Alliance, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Wounded Warriors, causes she deeply believed in.
Jeanie did life her way-the right way. And while the world feels a little dimmer without her here, heaven just got a whole lot brighter… and sassier.
A Celebration of Life
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Kemper Center Founder’s Hall
6501 3rd Avenue, Kenosha, WI
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm, with a short service to follow.
Please bring your stories, your hugs, and maybe a few M&M’s in your pocket, just for her.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
262-653-0667
