Who is Emmitt Smith’s Wife? Everything You Need to Know
Emmitt Smith is a football legend, known for his record-breaking NFL career and undeniable impact on the game. But behind his success stands a remarkable woman—his wife, Patricia Southall. As Emmitt Smith’s wife, Patricia has built a life that goes far beyond the football field.
A former beauty queen, entrepreneur, and dedicated philanthropist, she has made her own mark in the world. Their love story, family life, and her individual achievements make her an inspiring figure. Let’s take a closer look at the woman who shares her life with the NFL great.
Who is Emmitt Smith’s Wife?
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Emmitt Smith’s wife, Patricia “Pat” Annette Southall, was born on December 17, 1970, in Chesapeake, Virginia. She pursued a degree in journalism from James Madison University, where she was actively involved in leadership roles, including serving as president of the Student Government Association.
Her first taste of fame came in 1993 when she was crowned Miss Virginia USA, later securing the first runner-up position in the 1994 Miss USA pageant. This experience propelled her into the public eye and opened doors for her career in media, philanthropy, and business.
Over the years, Patricia has built a name for herself beyond the spotlight of being married to a sports icon. She is an entrepreneur, public speaker, and philanthropist, actively engaged in projects that uplift and empower women in need.
How Emmitt Smith and Patricia Met
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Patricia and Emmitt Smith first met in 1998 during a music festival in Aruba. At the time, Patricia had already been in the public eye due to her pageant success and previous marriage to comedian Martin Lawrence.
Despite living in different cities, the two maintained a long-distance relationship before Emmitt proposed in 1999 during his 30th birthday celebration. Their wedding took place on April 22, 2000, in a grand ceremony attended by family, friends, and fellow celebrities.
Their love story is often described as one of mutual respect and faith, with both partners supporting each other’s endeavors while raising a blended family together.
Family Life and Children
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Patricia and Emmitt Smith have built a strong and loving family, raising a mix of children from their previous relationships and their own marriage. Their family includes:
- Jasmine Page Lawrence (Born 1996) – Patricia’s daughter with Martin Lawrence.
- Rheagen Smith (Born 1998) – Emmitt’s daughter from a previous relationship.
- Emmitt James Smith IV (Born 2002) – The couple’s first son, following in his father’s footsteps in football.
- Skylar Smith (Born 2003) – Their daughter, actively involved in sports and education.
- Elijah Alexander James Smith (Born 2010) – The youngest of the Smith siblings.
As parents, Patricia and Emmitt have focused on instilling strong values, discipline, and education in their children. They often share insights into their family life on social media, showcasing their commitment to faith, family, and community service.
Challenges and Strengths in Their Marriage
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Emmitt Smith and Patricia Southall’s marriage faced several challenges over their two decades together. Balancing Emmitt’s demanding football career with family life was a significant hurdle. Patricia often prioritized family responsibilities, which sometimes meant setting aside her own career aspirations. This dynamic required both partners to navigate the complexities of personal ambitions and shared commitments.
In 2016, Patricia candidly discussed feelings of insecurity during Emmitt’s participation in “Dancing With the Stars,” particularly concerning his partnership with professional dancer Cheryl Burke. She admitted to experiencing jealousy and emphasized the importance of open communication in overcoming such challenges.
After celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary in April 2020, the couple announced their separation in July of the same year. In a joint statement, they emphasized their mutual respect and commitment to co-parenting their children, stating, “We are publicly sharing that after much contemplation and prayer, we have decided to separate as a couple.”
They also highlighted their dedication to supporting each other’s personal growth and maintaining a strong family foundation.
Despite their separation, both Emmitt and Patricia have continued to focus on their individual endeavors and philanthropic efforts, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to their family’s well-being.
Patricia Southall’s Life Beyond Being an NFL Wife
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Patricia has carved out an independent identity through her entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts. She is the founder of Treasure You, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women in financial distress by offering resources, workshops, and mentorship.
Additionally, she and Emmitt co-founded Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, focusing on empowering underserved youth through education and mentorship programs. Through these organizations, Patricia has impacted countless lives, helping women and children gain access to opportunities that enable self-sufficiency and success.
Beyond philanthropy, Patricia is also a motivational speaker and author. Her book, Second Chance, shares personal experiences and lessons on faith, resilience, and rebuilding after setbacks. She uses her platform to inspire women to find strength in adversity and redefine their paths.
