Howard Lee may not be a household name, but his influence extended from the Texas oil fields to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. As a successful oilman and husband to two of the era’s most iconic actresses, Lee’s life was a fascinating blend of business savvy and celebrity. Let’s take a closer look at the man behind the headlines.
Who Was W. Howard Lee?
Howard Lee was born on September 12, 1908, in Texas. As the son of oil pioneer W.E. Lee, Howard was destined for a life in the oil industry. Along with his three brothers, he formed the Lee Brothers Oil Co. and made a name for himself in the competitive world of Texas oil.
But Lee’s life took a turn when he met and married not one, but two Hollywood stars. His marriages to Hedy Lamarr and Gene Tierney thrust him into the spotlight and made him a fixture in the celebrity gossip columns of the day.
Early Life and Business Ventures
Growing up in Texas, W. Howard Lee was surrounded by the oil industry from a young age. His father, W.E. Lee, was a successful oilman and passed on his knowledge and business acumen to his sons. Howard and his three brothers – Fenton, Doyle, and Raleigh – joined forces to create the Lee Brothers Oil Co. The company quickly became a major player in the Texas oil scene, with Howard at the helm.
But Lee wasn’t content to stay in Texas. He expanded his business interests and made strategic investments that would pay off handsomely down the line. His keen eye for opportunity and willingness to take risks set him apart from his competitors.
Marriage To Gene Tierney
In 1960, W. Howard Lee married his second Hollywood wife – the stunningly beautiful Gene Tierney. Tierney was a bonafide movie star, known for her roles in classics like “Laura” and “Leave Her to Heaven.” Their marriage was a source of endless fascination for the press. Tierney was 17 years younger than Lee and at the height of her fame. But despite the age gap and the pressures of celebrity, the couple seemed genuinely devoted to one another.
Over the course of their 20-year marriage, Lee and Tierney weathered many storms together, including Tierney’s struggles with mental illness. Through it all, Lee remained a steadfast and supportive husband.
Influence On Gene Tierney’s Life and Career
Howard Lee’s marriage to Gene Tierney had a profound impact on the actress’s life and career. When they met, Tierney was already an established star, but her personal life was in turmoil. Lee provided a sense of stability and security that Tierney had never known before. He was a calming presence in her often chaotic world and helped her to navigate the pressures of fame.
But Lee’s influence went beyond emotional support. He also played a key role in shaping Tierney’s career choices. Lee encouraged his wife to take on more challenging roles and to push herself creatively. Under Lee’s guidance, Tierney tackled a wider range of parts and earned critical acclaim for her performances. She credited much of her success to her husband’s unwavering belief in her talents.
Previous Marriages And Personal Life
Before his marriage to Gene Tierney, W. Howard Lee was married to another Hollywood icon – Hedy Lamarr. Lee and Lamarr wed in 1953, but their union was short-lived. They divorced in 1960, setting the stage for Lee’s marriage to Tierney. Lee’s marriage to Lamarr was tumultuous from the start. The couple had a passionate but volatile relationship, and their divorce was a messy affair. Lamarr accused Lee of physical abuse, while Lee painted Lamarr as an unstable and demanding wife.
Despite the drama of his personal life, Lee remained focused on his business ventures. He continued to expand his oil interests and made shrewd investments in real estate and other industries.
Wealth And Business Legacy
Howard Lee was a savvy businessman who built a vast fortune over the course of his life. His success in the oil industry was just the beginning. Lee diversified his holdings and invested in a wide range of ventures, from real estate to aviation. He had a keen eye for opportunity and was always on the lookout for the next big thing.
At the time of his death in 1981, Lee’s net worth was estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. He left behind a business empire that continues to thrive to this day. But Lee’s legacy extends beyond his financial success. He was known for his generosity and philanthropy, particularly in his home state of Texas. Lee donated millions of dollars to charitable causes and was a major benefactor of several educational institutions.
Later Years And Passing
In his later years, W. Howard Lee faced a number of health challenges. He battled cancer and other illnesses, but remained active in his business dealings until the very end. Lee passed away on February 16, 1981, at the age of 72. He was surrounded by his loved ones, including his wife Gene Tierney and his daughter Donna Lee Curtin.
News of Lee’s death sent shockwaves through the business and entertainment worlds. Many of his famous friends and associates paid tribute to his kindness, generosity, and business acumen.
Impact On The Business World
Howard Lee’s impact on the business world cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer in the oil industry and a visionary investor who helped to shape the modern business landscape. Lee’s success in the oil business inspired generations of entrepreneurs and helped to establish Texas as a major player in the global energy market. His investments in real estate, aviation, and other industries also had a lasting impact.
But perhaps Lee’s greatest legacy was his commitment to philanthropy. He believed in giving back to the community and used his wealth to support a wide range of charitable causes. Lee’s generosity helped to fund educational initiatives, medical research, and community development projects. His legacy continues to inspire business leaders and philanthropists around the world.
Remembering W. Howard Lee
Howard Lee was a larger-than-life figure who left an indelible mark on the worlds of business and entertainment. He was a self-made man who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful and influential businessmen of his time. But Lee was more than just a savvy investor and oil tycoon. He was also a devoted husband, father, and friend who inspired loyalty and admiration in all who knew him.
Today, W. Howard Lee is remembered as a true American success story. His life and career serve as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and vision. Lee’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists who hope to follow in his footsteps and make their own mark on the world.
Conclusion
Howard Lee’s life was a remarkable journey that took him from the oil fields of Texas to the bright lights of Hollywood. Along the way, he built a business empire, married two of the most famous actresses of his time, and left an indelible mark on the worlds of commerce and culture.
Lee’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and generosity. He overcame countless obstacles and setbacks to achieve his dreams and create a legacy that continues to inspire and influence to this day. As we look back on the life and times of W. Howard Lee, we are reminded of the power of the American dream and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue it. Lee’s example serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for us all.
