Flinn Family Genealogy & History

Kelly Flinn, born December 23, 1970, in St. Louis, Missouri, made history as the first female B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force (USAF). Her career faced a pivotal moment in 1997 when she was discharged after an adulterous affair with a civilian soccer coach, leading to charges of conduct unbecoming an officer and lying under oath. This case drew national attention, highlighting issues of military conduct and media portrayal. Following her resignation from the Air Force, Flinn transitioned to a career as a commercial pilot for Trans World Airlines and authored a book detailing her experiences.

Flinn was the youngest of five children, but specific details about her parents or family origins were not provided in the source text.

Alexandra Flinn, born October 23, 1966, is a renowned American author specializing in young adult novels. Her works, which often modernize classic fairy tales, have graced the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists and have been translated into over twenty languages. Notable books include "Breathing Underwater," "Beastly," and "A Kiss in Time." Flinn's "Beastly," part of the Kendra Chronicles series, was adapted into a successful film, earning her a #1 New York Times bestseller accolade. Her books frequently appear on American Library Association lists, catering to both eager and reluctant young adult readers.

William Flinn (1851–1924) was a prominent political boss and construction magnate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Alongside Christopher Magee, he ran the Republican Party machine controlling Pittsburgh politics for two decades. Serving in roles such as a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners and the Pennsylvania State Senate, Flinn was instrumental in passing the Good Roads Act of 1895. His business ventures included the contracting firm Booth and Flinn, known for major projects like the Liberty Tunnels and the Holland Tunnel. Flinn was active in the Progressive Party following the 1912 Republican National Convention.

Born in Manchester, England, Flinn was the son of John Flinn, an Irish immigrant, and Mary Hamilton Flinn, an Englishwoman. The family moved to Pittsburgh shortly after his birth, where his father founded a contracting business. Flinn married Nancy Galbraith in 1874, and they had seven children. His sons, George, Ralph, and A. Rex, played significant roles in the family construction firm, while his daughters were noted figures in local society.

Kathleen Flinn, born June 1, 1967, is a renowned American author, journalist, and chef, celebrated for her New York Times bestseller, "The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry." Known for her expertise in culinary arts, Flinn attended the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, capturing her transformative journey in her debut memoir. Her works, including "The Kitchen Counter Cooking School" and "Burnt Toast Makes You Sing Good," have been recognized for their insightful exploration of cooking and personal growth, earning accolades like the ASJA Award and being finalists in notable book awards.

Kathleen Flinn hails from Davison, Michigan, the youngest of five siblings. Her father, Milton G. Flinn Sr., worked as a foreman at General Motors' AC Spark Plug plant, while her mother was employed in GM's personnel department. Flinn's early years were marked by a move to Florida due to her father's terminal illness, shaping the narrative of her third book. Her upbringing in a GM-employed family and her grandmother's influence on her culinary journey are central to her multi-generational memoir.