Mary Lee Davidson, originally Mary Lee Stewart, was born in the small town of Sainte Foy, a suburb of Quebec City. In high school, she was noticed by her teachers for her exceptional ability in both science and gymnastics. She graduated high school at the top of her class, earning a degree in science. After high school she attended Sainte Foy College, Specializing in Math and Science. While she attended classes there she met Francis Davidson, her future husband. After two years of hard work, she was accepted into the prestigious Southern California Naval Academy at the age of 19.