1998 – Palm Springs, California & Vancouver, British Columbia
Jackie Lee Houston (nee: McDonald) was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She attended the University of Washington, graduating in Home Economics and Fashion Design. She modeled for the fabled Hollywood designer Edith Head and was voted one of the top IO Fashion Models in the United States. Mrs. Houston won the title of Miss Washington in 1952 and 1953, as well as holding the title of Miss Pacific Northwest, representing the West Coast. Jackie Lee met her husband Jim at the University of Washington. They have been married for 42 years and two daughters, one son and four grandchildren. The Houstons have been part-time residents of Palm Springs, California for over twenty years, spending their time between the desert and Vancouver, BC. In 1995, a proclamation presented by Mayor Lloyd Maryanov, City of Palm Springs, proclaimed June 27th (her birthday) as “JACKIE LEE HOUSTON DAY”. The proclamation stated that “her generosity has improved the quality of life for many of our less fortunate citizens; and her compassion and positive attitude have inspired others to become more involved in fundraising activities for deserving charities”. Jackie Lee is a member of the Palm Springs Desert Museum (The Muses); the Variety Club – Tent 66; the AIDS Assistance Program; The Living Desert; a member of the board of the Palm Springs Desert Museum Women’s Committee; a supporter of the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center. And, she has helped to guide and support the Northwood University scholarship event which currently sends three California students to Northwood campuses. She is a United Way benefactor in Vancouver, British Columbia, supporting many charities in Canada through the United Way program. She is a patron of the Vancouver Symphony Society and has served on the board of various charitable organizations in that city. She is a member of the Georgian Club, a women’s club based in Vancouver.
