Legendary Nevadans:
Jessie Beck
A down-on-her-luck Texas cashier becomes one of Reno’s most celebrated residents. BY CORY MUNSON
At 34 years old, Jessie Beck (born Jessie Renfro) found herself recently divorced and nearly broke. Opportunities for a single mother in 1938 were few, so she was relieved to find work at a diner in Fort Worth.
NEVADA MAGAZINE & VISITOR GUIDE
A few months into the job, Beck’s sister Mabel and brother-in-law Raymond “Pappy” Smith entered the restaurant. The two had just arrived from Reno, where Pappy managed the Harolds Club casino.
BECK DEALING BLACKJACK, CIRCA 1971
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From adventurers and gunslingers to writers and thinkers, Nevada’s history was shaped by individuals with grit and drive. Each issue, we look at one of these notable heroes from the past. Whether born or raised, these aren’t just Nevadans: they’re Legendary Nevadans.
After they finished their meal, Pappy went to the register to pay. To his surprise, his sister-in-law calculated his bill—including tax—without any pen or paper. He offered her a job on the spot, saying anyone that good with numbers belonged in the casino business. Beck said she didn’t know much about gambling, but if Pappy was offering her a fresh start, she would take it.
Nevada Historical Society (Beck dealing blackjack)
6/27/22 9:14 AM
