Few stand out more in the Houston community as an icon of philanthropy and community service than Linda McReynolds. Her decades of volunteerism at the highest levels earned her top honors at the Assistance League's annual Mary Jo Peckham Awards Luncheon held at River Oaks Country Club.
McReynolds is recognized not only on the Houston front but also nationally for her myriad good works. In 2010, she was named Outstanding Community Volunteer Fundraiser at the Association of Fundraising Professionals' National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon. While raising millions of dollars for important nonprofits, McReynolds has led the charge in creating signature events for organizations such as Rice University, the Salvation Army, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and UT Health.
In 2011, for example, McReynolds chaired the Salvation Army "Reflections on Style" luncheon that raised a record $507,000 while honoring former first lady Barbara Bush.
More than 275 guests, including daughters Larkin McReynolds in from New York and Merritt Marinelli, turned out to applaud the honoree. Among those offering congratulations were luncheon chairs Jenny Price and Betty Puryear and Mary Jo Peckham's children, Leila Gilbert, Liz Jameson, Ann Berry and Walt Peckham, who served as honorary chairs. As a special treat, the family's uncle, Earl Lester, was treated with a cake as it was his 100th birthday.
Among those admiring the fashion show by Elizabeth Anthony were Elise Joseph, Carolyn Young, Jeanie Kilroy, Rose Cullen, Cynthia Allshouse, Lilly Andress, Molly Crownover, Phoebe Tudor and Joan Schnitzer-Levy.
Larkin McReynolds, from left, honoree Linda McReynolds and Merritt McReynolds Marinelli.
