[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 9 (Wednesday, January 29, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S793]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO THE LATE JEANE DIXON
Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, each morning for more years than anyone
can remember, millions of Americans have religiously opened their
newspapers and consulted their horoscope, checking their astrological
sign for an idea of what good or bad fortune their day might hold.
Whether these people did this out of a true belief that the stars could
predict their fate, or just out of a sense of fun, it was the work of a
prominent Washingtonian, Jeane Dixon, whose column more often than not
they were reading. Sadly, her fans will no longer be able to gaze into
the future over a cup of coffee and an English muffin, as Mrs. Dixon
passed away this past Saturday at the age of 79.
Mrs. Dixon gained notoriety as an astrologer and psychic when she
made some eerily accurate predictions concerning the tragic fate of the
late President Kennedy, the election of Richard Nixon to the
Presidency, that China would become Communist, and the eventual
election of Ronald Reagan as Chief Executive. Whether she truly had the
ability to see into the future will forever be a mystery, but she
certainly made enough accurate forecasts about events that she earned a
degree of credibility. From what I understand, she was often consulted
by individuals inside and outside of Government, and she was certainly
a favorite in Washington social circles, which is how I came to know
Mrs. Dixon many years ago.
Those who only knew the Jeane Dixon whose name graced horoscope
columns were not familiar with the generous and concerned nature of
this woman who worked very hard to help build a better world through
philanthropy. A devout Catholic, Mrs. Dixon gave freely to the church,
supporting many worthy charities and relief projects designed to help
the less fortunate and those in need. Additionally, Mrs. Dixon
established the Jeane Dixon's Children to Children Foundation, an
organization that has undertaken many fine efforts to help some of
America's most vulnerable citizens, its children.
I am proud to have been able to count Jeane Dixon among my friends.
She was the godmother to my youngest son, Paul, and the two would visit
whenever possible. Unfortunately in later years, Paul's schedule as a
tennis player and college student, and Jeane's busy traveling and
business schedule did not permit as many get togethers as either would
like. Still, they were good friends and did enjoy being able to see
each other several times a year. As Jeane lived in town, I would see
her frequently, and always enjoyed being able to host her and her
friends for lunch in the Senate dining room. Without question, she was
a kind and warm-hearted woman who was always interested in politics and
the events of the day. She was a witty conversationalist and it was
always amusing and intriguing to hear what she believed was in store
for the Nation and prominent figures in Government and entertainment.
Mr. President, Jeane Dixon led a full and unique life. She was known,
admired, and liked by countless people and we shall all miss her. My
condolences go out to her sister, Evelyn P. Brier; her brother, Dr.
Warren E. Pinckert; and her nieces and nephews, all of whom survive
her.
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