Muscle Legends
The dictionary defines "legend" as "a famous or important person who is known for doing something extremely well". And certainly that description fits all the athletes you will read about in this page I call Muscle Legends.
As you will read in this collection of posts, I had the pleasure of interacting with these champions in some capacity. Some of my posts are lighthearted looks at my experiences with them. Others are simply my attempts to honor their passing by expressing how they touched my life. It is my hope that by sharing my personal stories, I will show their humanity, humor, intelligence, power, drive and their desire to make an impact. Because it is something they have all done "extremely well".
Note: These health related pages are coming soon or currently being updated. Muscle Memories Arizona Muscle Muscle & Fitness Muscle Beach AZ Muscle Legends
As you will read in this collection of posts, I had the pleasure of interacting with these champions in some capacity. Some of my posts are lighthearted looks at my experiences with them. Others are simply my attempts to honor their passing by expressing how they touched my life. It is my hope that by sharing my personal stories, I will show their humanity, humor, intelligence, power, drive and their desire to make an impact. Because it is something they have all done "extremely well".
Note: These health related pages are coming soon or currently being updated. Muscle Memories Arizona Muscle Muscle & Fitness Muscle Beach AZ Muscle Legends
Cory Everson.
I recently reconnected via Facebook with one of my old writing partners, Cory Everson. She and I worked together at Muscle and Fitness Magazine for almost two years. Cory was serious about winning Ms. Olympia six consecutive years, publishing books, starring in TV and movies, her artwork, and being a great Mom. But she was sooooo much fun to collaborate with and loved to joke around. And she was always full of surprises - like when we were working on this magazine article and she told me she ate a Snickers bar every day. But then she must have known what she was doing because if you check out her Facebook page Cory Everson, you'll see she still looks like a world class athlete today.
Arnold Schwarzenegger.
When I got to the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio my editors at Muscle and Fitness and Flex magazines told me my assignment was to interview Arnold Schwarzenegger. This was right around the time he was making The Terminator movies, so I was pretty excited. I said something like, “What time have you set up for me to meet with him?” They all chuckled at this naive rookie writer/photographer and said, “Whenever you can make it happen.”
So knowing I couldn’t leave without that interview, I started stalking Arnold throughout the weekend. I finally saw my chance when he was heading from an upstairs television interview down to the auditorium where he was emceeing the contest. I caught him mid-stairwell and got a brief interview before he continued downstairs. I didn’t think much of it until I got home, but then it dawned on me that I probably owed him one. He was no doubt headed for a much needed bathroom break before going onstage, so he could have easily told me “Ah’ll be bach’’ or “hasta la vista, baby.” :-)
So knowing I couldn’t leave without that interview, I started stalking Arnold throughout the weekend. I finally saw my chance when he was heading from an upstairs television interview down to the auditorium where he was emceeing the contest. I caught him mid-stairwell and got a brief interview before he continued downstairs. I didn’t think much of it until I got home, but then it dawned on me that I probably owed him one. He was no doubt headed for a much needed bathroom break before going onstage, so he could have easily told me “Ah’ll be bach’’ or “hasta la vista, baby.” :-)
Robby Robinson.
Long before I was writing and shooting for fitness magazines or running a chain of 24 Hour health clubs, I dabbled in radio. (I was always told I had a face for radio. Ba dum bum!) I worked at a tiny station broadcasting KBOS (rock) and KGEN (country) in the very small town of Tulare, California. We were scrambling for ideas to sell ads, so I called Robby Robinson out of the blue to invite him to do some promotions with us. Bearing in mind that this is about the time this Mr. America/Mr. Universe/Mr. Olympia-Masters was competing and appearing in movies, Pumping Iron and Stay Hungry with Arnold Schwarzenegger, he could easily ignored me – especially when he heard our budget. But instead, he decided he’d road trip up from LA for the weekend.
The good folks in our farming community had never seen a professional bodybuilder before, so lots of families came out to meet him. And though they were somewhat intimidated by his sheer mass at first, the soft spoken charm and approachability of this Vietnam veteran quickly won everyone over.
I recently reconnected with Robby via Facebook and blown away by this senior citizen’s contest-ready conditioning, his blogs, books and Master Class programs. So if you want to be truly inspired, check out his website http://www.robbyrobinson.net/
The good folks in our farming community had never seen a professional bodybuilder before, so lots of families came out to meet him. And though they were somewhat intimidated by his sheer mass at first, the soft spoken charm and approachability of this Vietnam veteran quickly won everyone over.
I recently reconnected with Robby via Facebook and blown away by this senior citizen’s contest-ready conditioning, his blogs, books and Master Class programs. So if you want to be truly inspired, check out his website http://www.robbyrobinson.net/
Alice Cooper.
Note: No hit song titles in quotation marks were harmed in the making of this pun-ishing tale. :- )
Believe it or not, I met Alice Cooper at the gym. It was many years ago when I was training with Bk Boreyko at Myron Larrabee’s World Gym in Scottsdale, AZ. Contrary to the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s claim to be “No More Mr. Nice Guy.” he was pretty friendly when he was there training his “Muscle Of Love”. And when “Schools Out”, he was just another Soccer Dad standing on the sidelines with us. But I got a chance to see the now host of Nights with Alice Cooper work his “Killer” magic one day when I was photographing a charity golf tournament. The sponsor had asked me to get “non-traditional” photos, so I talked all the foursomes into being creative. By the time I reached Alice Cooper's Solid Rock’s hole, I’d shot increasingly lubricated millionaires doing human pyramids and all kinds of crazy stuff. So I basically told Alice “Welcome To My Nightmare” because the challenge was on. He turned to his team of rather proper golfing gentlemen and said, “Okay guys, here’s what we’re going to do. You are all going to lay on the ground like your dead, and I’m going to make it look like I ran over you with the golf cart.” They looked at him like he had asked them to drink “Poison”. But then he just grinned and said, “Guys. Trust me. It’s my business.” And when the creator of Alice Cooperstown said get “Under My Wheels”, of course they all “Elected” to oblige. Need-Les to say, their photo was the best of all the “Billion Dollar Babies” I shot that day.
Believe it or not, I met Alice Cooper at the gym. It was many years ago when I was training with Bk Boreyko at Myron Larrabee’s World Gym in Scottsdale, AZ. Contrary to the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s claim to be “No More Mr. Nice Guy.” he was pretty friendly when he was there training his “Muscle Of Love”. And when “Schools Out”, he was just another Soccer Dad standing on the sidelines with us. But I got a chance to see the now host of Nights with Alice Cooper work his “Killer” magic one day when I was photographing a charity golf tournament. The sponsor had asked me to get “non-traditional” photos, so I talked all the foursomes into being creative. By the time I reached Alice Cooper's Solid Rock’s hole, I’d shot increasingly lubricated millionaires doing human pyramids and all kinds of crazy stuff. So I basically told Alice “Welcome To My Nightmare” because the challenge was on. He turned to his team of rather proper golfing gentlemen and said, “Okay guys, here’s what we’re going to do. You are all going to lay on the ground like your dead, and I’m going to make it look like I ran over you with the golf cart.” They looked at him like he had asked them to drink “Poison”. But then he just grinned and said, “Guys. Trust me. It’s my business.” And when the creator of Alice Cooperstown said get “Under My Wheels”, of course they all “Elected” to oblige. Need-Les to say, their photo was the best of all the “Billion Dollar Babies” I shot that day.
The Ultimate Warrior.
The Ultimate Warrior (UW) may be the toughest man I never met. I’ll explain. Back when he was a major star for the WWF, defeating Hulk Hogan in WrestleMania VI, appearing on Arsenio Hall, Regis and Kathy, etc., he was training in Arizona. I’d shot a modeling portfolio for his stunning girlfriend, who then asked me to do a photo shoot for his UW apparel line. So I drove up to his beautiful desert home, only to find he wasn’t going to be there. We did the best we could with the photos, but without UW or anyone else modeling them, I doubt they ever got used. Hmmmm....now that I think about it, maybe I should go hunt him down and pin him to the mat just for making me lose a day. Uhhhh...wait a minute... His ring name is the “Ultimate WARRIOR” and mine would probably be the “Ultimate WORRIER”. Probably a bad idea. Maybe I’ll just write this one of to experience and skip the whole part where I get mangled
Anthony Clark.
I found this (rough scan) of a photo I shot many years ago of Anthony Clark, one of the strongest men who ever lived. He could reverse bench press 800 lb!!!. Here he is lifting hilarious actor, Gregg Binkley over his head with one hand at a Convention. I remember having to talk Gregg - who was playing Barney Fife - into it because...well, because who thinks anyone can lift them up with ONE hand and NOT drop them on their head? Gregg was a trooper tho - no police pun intended - and Anthony hoisted him up like he was a 10 pound bag of sugar. The crowd went nuts!
Larry Scott.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Larry Scott. My thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this time of sorrow and loss.
The first Mr. Olympia, Larry Scott will be remembered for his many accomplishments in life. But more importantly, he will be remembered for the way he made people feel.
I first met him when I was doing interviews backstage at an event for Muscle and Fitness magazine. I approached him somewhat timidly, because after all, he was a legend in the sport. I asked him some question or another, which he answered politely. Then he said, "Les, tell me about yourself."
I was stunned because it was so unexpected and so unassuming. I proceeded to tell him how I got my start as a writer for archery magazines, to which he broke into a big grin. Then he told me of his great love for the outdoors and how he would go set up a tee pee and stay in it. I couldn't help laughing at the contrast of a swim-suited Mr. Olympia being right at home in a tee pee wearing mountain man clothes. But that was him. A study in contrasts. A man who cared for others in a sport that is often focused on self. A world champion who would rather know about you than talk about himself. A sports superstar who shunned the limelight so he could be a honorable husband, Dad and businessman.
I got a chance to connect with Larry several years after that first meeting. I was on a business call that he just happened to be part of. He not only remembered me, but talked with the informal ease and humor that one friend talks to another. I hung up thinking "what a class act."
While I have thought of reaching out to just say hi to Larry over the years, it never happened. And for that, I feel a sense of loss. It serves as a tremendous reminder to me that today is the day to say the important things to people who have made a difference.
Larry Scott will be missed greatly. Not just for the body he presented on stage and in films, but for the many lives he humbly, gladly and readily blessed every day. So rest in peace, Larry. And know that you will be remembered for your kindness, humor and grace.
The first Mr. Olympia, Larry Scott will be remembered for his many accomplishments in life. But more importantly, he will be remembered for the way he made people feel.
I first met him when I was doing interviews backstage at an event for Muscle and Fitness magazine. I approached him somewhat timidly, because after all, he was a legend in the sport. I asked him some question or another, which he answered politely. Then he said, "Les, tell me about yourself."
I was stunned because it was so unexpected and so unassuming. I proceeded to tell him how I got my start as a writer for archery magazines, to which he broke into a big grin. Then he told me of his great love for the outdoors and how he would go set up a tee pee and stay in it. I couldn't help laughing at the contrast of a swim-suited Mr. Olympia being right at home in a tee pee wearing mountain man clothes. But that was him. A study in contrasts. A man who cared for others in a sport that is often focused on self. A world champion who would rather know about you than talk about himself. A sports superstar who shunned the limelight so he could be a honorable husband, Dad and businessman.
I got a chance to connect with Larry several years after that first meeting. I was on a business call that he just happened to be part of. He not only remembered me, but talked with the informal ease and humor that one friend talks to another. I hung up thinking "what a class act."
While I have thought of reaching out to just say hi to Larry over the years, it never happened. And for that, I feel a sense of loss. It serves as a tremendous reminder to me that today is the day to say the important things to people who have made a difference.
Larry Scott will be missed greatly. Not just for the body he presented on stage and in films, but for the many lives he humbly, gladly and readily blessed every day. So rest in peace, Larry. And know that you will be remembered for your kindness, humor and grace.
Lance Dreher.
Original Facebook post October 16, 2014 ·
Prior to writing and shooting for Muscle & Fitness magazine, I photographed a lot of the top Arizona bodybuilders, fitness competitors and fitness models*. Perhaps one of the biggest - with his biceps measuring 23.5 inch at his peak - was two-time Mr. Universe and former Mr. America, Lance Dreher. Lance was prepping for a big show and was in incredible condition when we shot. Yet, despite his strict contest dieting, he was very cordial and kind - no small task when all you can think about is food! Since then, Lance has earned his PhD in Physical Therapy, became a certified life coach, hosted radio shows and continues to inspire people to be fit and healthy.
*For more about the Arizona's Golden Era of bodybuilding, fitness and strength athletes, go to Arizona Muscle.
Prior to writing and shooting for Muscle & Fitness magazine, I photographed a lot of the top Arizona bodybuilders, fitness competitors and fitness models*. Perhaps one of the biggest - with his biceps measuring 23.5 inch at his peak - was two-time Mr. Universe and former Mr. America, Lance Dreher. Lance was prepping for a big show and was in incredible condition when we shot. Yet, despite his strict contest dieting, he was very cordial and kind - no small task when all you can think about is food! Since then, Lance has earned his PhD in Physical Therapy, became a certified life coach, hosted radio shows and continues to inspire people to be fit and healthy.
*For more about the Arizona's Golden Era of bodybuilding, fitness and strength athletes, go to Arizona Muscle.
Joe Weider.
Joe Weider passed away last week at the age of 93. While I didn't know Joe very well, he certainly had an impact on my life.
Joe Weider (pronounced “Wee-der”) inspired me as a youth to want to move from Michigan to California to lift weights, date surfer girls and drive dune buggies. (I hit the first two out of the three goals.)
Joe created a fitness revolution that resulted in me ultimately training thousands of people and running a chain of health clubs.
Joe published the world's largest health magazine, Muscle and Fitness, which gave me my big break as a writer and photographer.
Joe enabled me to work with the top bodybuilders, fitness competitors and strength athletes in the world - including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, Cory Everson, and just about every Olympia winner.
Joe produced a monthly advice column which required me to ghost write as a woman for over a year – something I will be teased about forever.
Joe promoted the biggest events in the industry and paid me well to travel to great places to cover them.
Joe hired incredibly gifted Editors, photographers and writers, who were patient enough not to strangle me while I learned my craft and kind enough to wait until my huge ego was humbled down a notch or two.
Joe made me feel welcome when I visited the Corporate Headquarters in Woodland Hills, CA, as he nearly sprinted to offer advice in his business suit and gym shoes from the offices of Muscle and Fitness, Men’s Fitness, FLEX (nicknamed there as Testosterone Corner) and Shape (nicknamed there as Estrogen Alley).
Joe allowed this newcomer to watch him work with the world’s best photographers backstage at the Olympia and Arnold Classic creating images that would set a new benchmark for graphic impact.
And most importantly, Joe demonstrated how weight training, cardio exercise and proper nutrition could bless anyone at any point in their lives, which is something that has profoundly blessed my life for the 50 years I have followed his example.
For these and so many other reasons, I will miss the man I was never truly privileged to know well. And I will be forever grateful for the many opportunities he gave me, and the powerfully healthy legacy he left behind.
Update 2019: The movie, Bigger was made about Joe Weider's life. It is a fitting tribute to a man who literally and figuratively shaped lives all around the world.
Joe Weider (pronounced “Wee-der”) inspired me as a youth to want to move from Michigan to California to lift weights, date surfer girls and drive dune buggies. (I hit the first two out of the three goals.)
Joe created a fitness revolution that resulted in me ultimately training thousands of people and running a chain of health clubs.
Joe published the world's largest health magazine, Muscle and Fitness, which gave me my big break as a writer and photographer.
Joe enabled me to work with the top bodybuilders, fitness competitors and strength athletes in the world - including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, Cory Everson, and just about every Olympia winner.
Joe produced a monthly advice column which required me to ghost write as a woman for over a year – something I will be teased about forever.
Joe promoted the biggest events in the industry and paid me well to travel to great places to cover them.
Joe hired incredibly gifted Editors, photographers and writers, who were patient enough not to strangle me while I learned my craft and kind enough to wait until my huge ego was humbled down a notch or two.
Joe made me feel welcome when I visited the Corporate Headquarters in Woodland Hills, CA, as he nearly sprinted to offer advice in his business suit and gym shoes from the offices of Muscle and Fitness, Men’s Fitness, FLEX (nicknamed there as Testosterone Corner) and Shape (nicknamed there as Estrogen Alley).
Joe allowed this newcomer to watch him work with the world’s best photographers backstage at the Olympia and Arnold Classic creating images that would set a new benchmark for graphic impact.
And most importantly, Joe demonstrated how weight training, cardio exercise and proper nutrition could bless anyone at any point in their lives, which is something that has profoundly blessed my life for the 50 years I have followed his example.
For these and so many other reasons, I will miss the man I was never truly privileged to know well. And I will be forever grateful for the many opportunities he gave me, and the powerfully healthy legacy he left behind.
Update 2019: The movie, Bigger was made about Joe Weider's life. It is a fitting tribute to a man who literally and figuratively shaped lives all around the world.
Tom Manno.
I wrote legendary powerlifter, Tom Manno's success story "No Pain. No Gain" for Muscle and Fitness magazine many years ago. Sadly this incredible gentle giant who could bench over 700 pounds is no longer with us. However, the impact this kind, funny, caring family man had on the sport and on people from all walks of life lives on. The copyright prohibits me from displaying the text in readable format, so I'm including a link I found that showcases his incredible achievements and gregarious personality that was "Larger Than Life".
Nasser El Sonbaty.
Original Facebook post April 23, 2015
This is a bittersweet post for me... I received this autographed photo from world champion bodybuilder, Nasser El Sonbaty many years ago. He sent it to me as a thank you for the article that I wrote about him for Muscle and Fitness magazine.
I had been told that Nasser could be a tough interview because he was so intelligent - the guy spoke 5 languages. However, from the very start, I found him helpful and engaging. When I sent him the article for approval before I submitted it, I was concerned it might come back requiring many changes. But instead he simply said, "I wouldn't change a word".
Since was the last article I ever wrote for Muscle and Fitness because Joe Weider was retiring, I have always been grateful to this gentle giant for his picture perfect send off. I recently attempted to reach out to tell him how much I appreciated his kindness, only to learn the very sad news that this great champion had passed away in 2013. So I hope this post brings honor to this great athlete and thoughtful man and adds one more great memory to those who knew and loved him.
This is a bittersweet post for me... I received this autographed photo from world champion bodybuilder, Nasser El Sonbaty many years ago. He sent it to me as a thank you for the article that I wrote about him for Muscle and Fitness magazine.
I had been told that Nasser could be a tough interview because he was so intelligent - the guy spoke 5 languages. However, from the very start, I found him helpful and engaging. When I sent him the article for approval before I submitted it, I was concerned it might come back requiring many changes. But instead he simply said, "I wouldn't change a word".
Since was the last article I ever wrote for Muscle and Fitness because Joe Weider was retiring, I have always been grateful to this gentle giant for his picture perfect send off. I recently attempted to reach out to tell him how much I appreciated his kindness, only to learn the very sad news that this great champion had passed away in 2013. So I hope this post brings honor to this great athlete and thoughtful man and adds one more great memory to those who knew and loved him.
Jackie Paisley
I wrote the following words upon hearing of Jackie Paisley's passing and I spoke the eulogy at her memorial a few days later. These two photos came from the photo shoot I referenced. The quotes from the world champions Cory Everson, Lenda Murray and Rachel McLish came from comments they wrote honoring her memory.
Remembering Jackie Paisley. Original Post March 26, 2015
I received the news that my friend, Jackie Paisley passed away unexpectedly last week. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who had the honor of knowing her and will mourn this very sad loss.
While her loved ones are making arrangements for her memorial, I thought I'd use this time to share some my fond memories of this remarkable woman.
I met Jackie many years ago when she was at the peak of her bodybuilding career. Since I was just beginning to photograph athletes, I asked her if we could work together. Not knowing the proper protocol, I asked her if we could split the cost of the film development. She laughed and said something to the effect of, "Well, people usually pay me to do photo sessions now, but since you are just starting out, sure, let's do it." Between her graceful lines, artistic command and incredible sense of fun, we had a terrific photo shoot. And in the process, we began a long term friendship.
I reconnected with Jackie several years ago and began to have lengthy conversations with her about all things. She was extremely intelligent, so I had to struggle to keep up with her when she got deep into the science of advanced nutrition. But when she talked about how much she loved her son, and how passionate she was about helping others near and far, she was easy to relate with. She was very determined to find answers for her illness, not just to heal herself, but to spread that message to anyone in life who was hurting. And in the midst of her struggle she never lost her incredible sense of humor. So of all the remarkable qualities of this accomplished athlete, musician and role model, I think it is her infectious laughter and genuine caring that I will remember most.
Jackie Paisley was a champion onstage and in real life. And I join the countless others who will miss her presence.
Rest in peace, Jackie. You truly made a difference.
My Speech Of Remembrance At Jackie Paisley's Memorial.
I met Jackie Paisley about 25 years ago at Myron’s World’s Gym in Scottsdale when I had just started photographing athletes. And even though she was being paid to shoot for the biggest fitness magazines, she agreed to shoot with me - and she even chipped in for the film. :-) Between her graceful lines, artistic command and incredible sense of humor, we had a terrific photo shoot. And in the process, we began a long friendship.
Since we met during her bodybuilding years, I thought I’d share the words that three of her contemporaries said about her.
Cory Everson, six time Ms. Olympia
Jackie is with her Father in heaven... in her forever home. We are all so grateful and honored to call her our friend and sister in the Lord. We all will miss you and we all love you.
Lenda Murray, eight time Ms. Olympia
Jackie Paisley inspired me to compete. She was a true champion in every way. Her ability to entertain and capture the audience will always be remembered. I will never forget that signature pose she did in a semi handstand displaying her well-conditioned hamstrings and glutes. Jackie I didn't get the opportunity to tell you that you laid the foundation for me. I pray that you knew how much you played a role in my life. You are a pioneer. God bless
Rachel McLish, the first Ms. Olympia
I am incredibly saddened by the news of JACKIE 's passing. I feel heartbroken, but grateful for the friendship that we were able to re-open and deepen through FB, esp. messaging. We were constantly ranting and bouncing things off of each other in hopes of curing the ills of the world. I know she suffered because she shared some of what she was experiencing but she did NOT complain or feel victimized...she was always hopeful and looking for solutions. I loved her spirit. I will miss her terribly. She was beloved and admired by many and was an inspiration in so many ways. I am thankful to have known her and I will never forget her. ...Until later, my sister in Christ.
I once heard a quote by Mother Teresa. She said, “Some people come in our life as blessings. Some come in your life as lessons.” I think Jackie Paisley was one of those rare people in life who was both a blessing and a lesson.
She blessed us with her athletic grace, her constant effort to help others improve, her laughter and sense of fun and her ability to treat everyone with kindness.
As for the lessons, here’s what she taught me – and perhaps some of you – by the way she lived her life. Honor God. Serve others. Live passionately. Love unconditionally. Forgive completely. Move forward. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Go sweat in the gym. And never, ever give up on your dream.
Jackie Paisley was a champion onstage and in real life. She blessed us and she taught us. And our lives were made better because of her.
Remembering Jackie Paisley. Original Post March 26, 2015
I received the news that my friend, Jackie Paisley passed away unexpectedly last week. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who had the honor of knowing her and will mourn this very sad loss.
While her loved ones are making arrangements for her memorial, I thought I'd use this time to share some my fond memories of this remarkable woman.
I met Jackie many years ago when she was at the peak of her bodybuilding career. Since I was just beginning to photograph athletes, I asked her if we could work together. Not knowing the proper protocol, I asked her if we could split the cost of the film development. She laughed and said something to the effect of, "Well, people usually pay me to do photo sessions now, but since you are just starting out, sure, let's do it." Between her graceful lines, artistic command and incredible sense of fun, we had a terrific photo shoot. And in the process, we began a long term friendship.
I reconnected with Jackie several years ago and began to have lengthy conversations with her about all things. She was extremely intelligent, so I had to struggle to keep up with her when she got deep into the science of advanced nutrition. But when she talked about how much she loved her son, and how passionate she was about helping others near and far, she was easy to relate with. She was very determined to find answers for her illness, not just to heal herself, but to spread that message to anyone in life who was hurting. And in the midst of her struggle she never lost her incredible sense of humor. So of all the remarkable qualities of this accomplished athlete, musician and role model, I think it is her infectious laughter and genuine caring that I will remember most.
Jackie Paisley was a champion onstage and in real life. And I join the countless others who will miss her presence.
Rest in peace, Jackie. You truly made a difference.
My Speech Of Remembrance At Jackie Paisley's Memorial.
I met Jackie Paisley about 25 years ago at Myron’s World’s Gym in Scottsdale when I had just started photographing athletes. And even though she was being paid to shoot for the biggest fitness magazines, she agreed to shoot with me - and she even chipped in for the film. :-) Between her graceful lines, artistic command and incredible sense of humor, we had a terrific photo shoot. And in the process, we began a long friendship.
Since we met during her bodybuilding years, I thought I’d share the words that three of her contemporaries said about her.
Cory Everson, six time Ms. Olympia
Jackie is with her Father in heaven... in her forever home. We are all so grateful and honored to call her our friend and sister in the Lord. We all will miss you and we all love you.
Lenda Murray, eight time Ms. Olympia
Jackie Paisley inspired me to compete. She was a true champion in every way. Her ability to entertain and capture the audience will always be remembered. I will never forget that signature pose she did in a semi handstand displaying her well-conditioned hamstrings and glutes. Jackie I didn't get the opportunity to tell you that you laid the foundation for me. I pray that you knew how much you played a role in my life. You are a pioneer. God bless
Rachel McLish, the first Ms. Olympia
I am incredibly saddened by the news of JACKIE 's passing. I feel heartbroken, but grateful for the friendship that we were able to re-open and deepen through FB, esp. messaging. We were constantly ranting and bouncing things off of each other in hopes of curing the ills of the world. I know she suffered because she shared some of what she was experiencing but she did NOT complain or feel victimized...she was always hopeful and looking for solutions. I loved her spirit. I will miss her terribly. She was beloved and admired by many and was an inspiration in so many ways. I am thankful to have known her and I will never forget her. ...Until later, my sister in Christ.
I once heard a quote by Mother Teresa. She said, “Some people come in our life as blessings. Some come in your life as lessons.” I think Jackie Paisley was one of those rare people in life who was both a blessing and a lesson.
She blessed us with her athletic grace, her constant effort to help others improve, her laughter and sense of fun and her ability to treat everyone with kindness.
As for the lessons, here’s what she taught me – and perhaps some of you – by the way she lived her life. Honor God. Serve others. Live passionately. Love unconditionally. Forgive completely. Move forward. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Go sweat in the gym. And never, ever give up on your dream.
Jackie Paisley was a champion onstage and in real life. She blessed us and she taught us. And our lives were made better because of her.