Virginia Lee was a talented actress, best recognized for her pivotal role as "Jeannie" in the 1949 film noir classic, D.O.A. Her character's presence in the jazz bar scene, where she caught the eye of the central character, "Frank Bigelow" (played by Edmond O'Brien),was a pivotal moment in the film.
Aside from her notable appearance in D.O.A., Lee's acting career consisted of minor roles in low-budget films and television shows, often billed under different names such as Virginia Lindley and Virginia Lewis. She also made appearances in notable films like The Black Widow (1947),In Like Flint (1967),Gunsmoke (1955),Death Valley Days (1952),and My Three Sons (1960),where she played the recurring role of Uncle Charlie's girlfriend.
Born on July 23, 1924, in Roseville, Michigan, Lee grew up in Redondo Beach, California, where she attended Redondo High School and majored in Latin. She later studied acting at the prestigious Pasadena Playhouse.
During World War II, Lee became a popular pin-up girl among G.I.'s and entertained troops with the U.S.O. She also worked in radio, appeared on magazine covers, and starred in billboard ads. In addition to her acting career, Lee was a devoted member of her community, serving as a Sunday School teacher with the Baptist Church and later as a Children's music director in the LDS Church.
In her later years, Lee dedicated herself to teaching, spending approximately 15 years at a private Christian School. She was survived by her son, Stephen Davis, and daughter, Sally Smith, as well as four grandchildren.
Tragically, Lee passed away on November 22, 2008, and was laid to rest at the Tan-Yan Cemetery in Camas Valley, Oregon. Despite her relatively short time in the spotlight, Lee left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry and those who knew her.
