Olga Jacqueline (Jackie) Lee was born to Olga Leigh Pilson (1898-1984) and Frank Charles Lee (1891-1963) on July 20, 1930 in Washington D.C. Jackie Lee later studied at the American Academey of Dramatic Arts in New York City. She worked as a professional dancer in New York City, before moving to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1952 and dancing at the Sands under Jack Entratter. She later worked at the Thunderbird. After her dancing career, Lee worked as cocktail waitress.