Who Is Emmitt Smith’s Wife? Exploring the Life of Patricia Southall

If you’re wondering who is Emmitt Smith’s wife, you’re about to discover a remarkable woman who has built a name for herself in multiple fields beyond simply being the spouse of an NFL legend. Patricia Southall, also known as Pat Smith, is a former beauty queen, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author. While many people recognize Emmitt Smith for his achievements on the football field—especially his time with the Dallas Cowboys and his all-time rushing yards record—Patricia has carved out her own legacy through her dedication to empowering women, charitable work, and public speaking. This article delves into her background, career, personal life, and the powerful impact she’s had both individually and alongside her famous husband.

Early Life and Education of Patricia Southall

Patricia Annette Southall was born on December 17, 1970, in Chesapeake, Virginia. She grew up alongside her twin sister, Pam Southall, in a family that valued education and integrity. Her parents encouraged her to pursue academic and personal excellence from a young age. Patricia attended James Madison University (JMU), where she earned a degree in journalism. During her time at JMU, she developed an interest in media, communications, and public engagement—skills that would later serve her well in both her professional and philanthropic efforts.

While still in college, Patricia interned in the media office of then-Governor Douglas Wilder, the first African-American governor of Virginia. This early exposure to leadership and community service influenced her later work in the nonprofit world.

Career Highlights and Pageant Success

Patricia Southall first stepped into the national spotlight in 1993 when she was crowned Miss Virginia USA. Her poise, intelligence, and charisma helped her stand out, and she went on to represent her state at the Miss USA pageant, where she finished as the first runner-up in 1994. Her success in pageantry opened doors to modeling, acting, and public appearances.

Patricia had a brief stint in entertainment, making appearances on shows like The Wayans Bros. and Beverly Hills, 90210. However, her interests soon shifted toward more meaningful endeavors that aligned with her values and life experiences. She chose to use her platform to inspire and support others, especially women facing adversity.

Philanthropy and Entrepreneurship

Patricia Southall is widely known for her philanthropic work. In 1999, she founded a nonprofit organization called Treasure You, which supports women facing financial, emotional, and spiritual challenges. The mission of Treasure You is to inspire women to find their worth and to equip them with tools and support that help them rebuild and thrive. The organization provides financial grants, community engagement, and mentoring opportunities to help women overcome hardship and rediscover their strength.

In addition to Treasure You, Patricia and Emmitt Smith co-founded Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities. This organization focuses on providing education and enrichment opportunities to underserved children. Their joint efforts have raised significant funds for youth programs and have touched countless lives in their community.

Patricia has also authored a book titled Second Chances, in which she shares personal stories about love, loss, forgiveness, and starting over. The book has resonated with many readers for its raw honesty and spiritual guidance. As a motivational speaker, she frequently addresses themes such as faith, resilience, and the power of transformation, often speaking at women’s conferences and empowerment events.

Personal Life

Before marrying Emmitt Smith, Patricia Southall was briefly married to comedian and actor Martin Lawrence. The two married in 1995 and had a daughter together, Jasmine Page Lawrence, born in 1996. Their relationship was short-lived, and they divorced in 1997. Despite the end of their marriage, Patricia has remained committed to co-parenting and ensuring that Jasmine had a loving and supportive upbringing.

In 1998, Patricia met Emmitt Smith at a music festival, and the two quickly formed a connection. They married on April 22, 2000, in a beautiful ceremony that brought together friends, family, and celebrities from both the sports and entertainment worlds. Their marriage lasted two decades and produced three children: Emmitt James Smith IV, Skylar Smith, and Elijah Alexander James Smith.

Over the years, the couple was frequently seen together at charity events, award ceremonies, and family outings, often praised for their commitment to one another and their shared values. They presented themselves as a power couple who balanced fame with faith and a commitment to family and service.

However, in August 2020, Emmitt and Patricia publicly announced their separation after 20 years of marriage. The announcement came as a surprise to many fans, but it was issued with mutual respect and care. Both emphasized their intention to continue co-parenting their children and supporting one another in their individual journeys.

Life Beyond the Marriage

While their marriage may have ended, Patricia Southall has continued to shine in her personal and professional life. Her work with Treasure You remains active, and she continues to speak publicly about healing, personal growth, and self-worth. Her social media platforms offer messages of encouragement and reflections on faith, family, and perseverance.

Patricia has also been transparent about her personal growth and lessons learned from love, loss, and rebuilding. Her authenticity resonates with many women who face similar life transitions. Whether discussing the challenges of blended families, divorce, or stepping into a new chapter, Patricia’s message is consistent: it’s never too late to reclaim your worth and start again.