(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
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 to visit. 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 visit her dear friend Holly to car shows, garage fix-it sessions and lunches at Culvers 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
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Shirley Schmidt says:
Jeanine was not just a housekeeper at KMH !! She was a friend, a very hard worker willing to pitch in wherever needed !! I loved working with her we worked together on 8 Palmer !! We love you Jeanine ! You are now a heavenly Angel looking down on us with your beautiful smile !! Rest in Peace in Heaven Jeanine !!
Craig Harbison says:
Jeanine was a good woman. She was my sister Dee’s best friend.
I know she will be deeply missed by many.
Michael Laudonio says:
RIP Jeanine. Got to know you during my time at KMH and always enjoyed your friendly smile. May you rest in peace.
Jackie Zellen Hoffman says:
Jeanine, a friend from St.Thomas grade school and ice skating buddy at Roosevelt school pond. Lots of great times. Later had her mom teach my 4 J’s at Prairie Lane School. Great memories!
Tanya Taber says:
Such a beautiful soul! Thank you for loving me as much as you loved your own children! Jeff and I are so proud to have been loved by you! Choosing us as one of your last visits was something we will never forget! Jeanine (Mama) we will love you and think about you often, and we will look over Shaunie as best we can! Love you to pieces!
Kris & Dave Klimisch and family says:
Oh grandma Jeanine – what a kind, sassy and mischevious young lady you were! I can remember volleyball games where we would sit & cheer the boys on during their games. However, it surely wasn’t without embarassment and causing a scene with laughing and carrying on. Your smile, your laugh, but more importantly your hugs were attitude changing and the BEST! You will be so deeply missed and greatly remembered for the joy and unconditional love you showed everyone you knew, and many who you didn’t know. Watch over all of us and I have no doubt your sassiness and shenanigans will continue on without pause. Smooches 🙂
Phyllis Kaufman says:
It was many years ago that Tom and I met you. Your memories are still with me. Glad you had a happy life, and say HI to Tom.
alison D'Olivo says:
Condolences to the family from the Denig family from 32nd Avenue
We played school in your basement for countless hours with your little sister.
Thinking of you all with great memories.
Alison Denig DOlivo
and Caroline Denig Garrow.🩷
Sandy Castellanos says:
Worked with Jean many years at Kmart. She was a very special person. Going to miss seeing her all over town. She lived her family very much and was very proud of all of them