Evelyn Francis McHale was born on September 20, 1923, in Berkeley, California. She grew up in a loving family, with her parents Helen and Vincent McHale, and her sister Helen Brenner. Evelyn was a bright and talented young woman, excelling in school and graduating from Normandy High School in 1942.
After completing high school, Evelyn decided to join the Women's Army Corps and was stationed in Jefferson City, Missouri. Following her service, she began working as a bookkeeper at the Kitab Engraving Company on Pearl Street. Known for her intelligence and dedication, Evelyn quickly rose through the ranks in her career.
Evelyn McHale gained worldwide recognition in 1947 when she tragically jumped to her death from the 86th-floor observation deck of the Empire State Building. Time magazine famously labeled her as "the most beautiful suicide" after a photograph was taken of her lying on top of a crushed car by a passing student. The image captured the attention of millions around the globe and was republished in newspapers and magazines everywhere.
Despite the tragic circumstances of her death, Evelyn's image has endured in pop culture. Artists like David Bowie and Radiohead have used recreations of her photograph in their music videos, paying tribute to her legacy in their own creative ways.
While Evelyn's life ended in a heartbreaking manner, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of mental health and the importance of seeking help in times of distress. Her memory lives on through her family, friends, and the countless individuals who have been inspired by her story.
Though she may be remembered as "the most beautiful suicide," Evelyn Francis McHale was so much more than a tragic headline. She was a daughter, a sister, a bookkeeper, and a woman with dreams and aspirations. May her memory be a reminder to cherish every moment of life and to reach out for help when needed.