Meet Diane Addonizio: Lawyer, Mother, and Howie Long’s Talented Wife

Have you ever wondered about the woman who stands quietly behind an NFL legend? That woman is Diane Addonizio. Diane is not just the wife of famous football star Howie Long. She is also a lawyer, a mother, and a kind, talented person who has touched many lives.

In this article, we’ll take a friendly and simple look at Diane’s life. We’ll talk about who she is, how she built her career, how she met Howie Long, and how they created a strong family together. So, let’s begin this journey and meet Diane Addonizio!

Diane Addonizio Quick Bio

Who Is Diane Addonizio?

Diane Addonizio is best known as the wife of Howie Long, the former NFL defensive player who is now a well-known sports analyst and actor. But Diane is much more than just a celebrity wife. She is a trained lawyer, a businesswoman, and an author.

Diane became famous after marrying Howie, but she always stayed private. She focused on supporting her family rather than seeking the spotlight. Many people admire her for being the strength behind her husband’s long career in football and beyond.

Diane Addonizio’s Early Life

Diane was born on 16 March 1962 in Red Bank, New Jersey. She grew up in a loving and hardworking family. Her father, Frank Addonizio, was a brave man who served in World War II and the Korean War. After the military, he worked in security at an important company. Her mother, Marie Cecere, took care of the family at home.

Diane also has a brother named James, who became a lawyer. From a young age, Diane saw the value of hard work and staying close to family. These lessons helped shape the woman she would become.

Diane Addonizio’s School and College Years

Diane always loved learning. She went to Villanova University in Pennsylvania. There, she studied Classical Studies, which means she learned about ancient languages, history, and cultures. It was at Villanova that Diane’s life changed forever. That’s where she met Howie Long!

After finishing at Villanova, Diane wanted to go further in her education. She moved to California and studied law at the University of Southern California School of Law. Diane worked hard and earned her law degree, showing her strong will and smart mind.

Diane’s Career as a Lawyer

After law school, Diane started working as a lawyer. She was excited to use what she had learned to help others. But after a short time in the legal world, Diane chose a different path. She decided to step back from practicing law so she could focus on something even more important to her—building a strong and happy family.

This choice showed how caring and thoughtful Diane is. Instead of chasing a big career for herself, she chose to be there for her husband and children. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was one that came from the heart.

Diane Addonizio as a Businesswoman and Author

Even though Diane stopped practicing law, she didn’t stop working hard. She tried her hand in the business world and invested in different projects. While she didn’t become a famous business leader, she gained respect for trying to build something on her own.

In 2000, Diane also became an author. She wrote a wonderful book called He’s Just My Dad!. The book shares special stories about famous athletes and their children. It also has beautiful pictures that show the softer side of these sports stars. Diane’s love for family and sports really shines through in this work.

How Diane Met Howie Long

Diane Addonizio met Howie Long when they were both students at Villanova University. Diane was a freshman, and Howie was a sophomore football player. Their love story started in a simple but sweet way. Diane’s first date with Howie was not at a fancy restaurant or party. Instead, he invited her to his dorm room to watch an NFL game on TV.

That small, cozy moment began a bond that would last for decades. Diane liked Howie not just because of his looks, though she once said she had never met anyone so big and handsome! She liked his heart and his passion for football.

Diane and Howie Long’s Marriage

Diane and Howie got married on June 27, 1982. Their wedding was a private event with family and close friends. From that day, Diane Addonizio became more than Howie’s wife—she became his partner in everything.

What’s truly inspiring is how they have kept their marriage strong for over 40 years. In a world where many famous couples split up, Diane and Howie stayed together. They believe in supporting each other, being kind, and facing life’s ups and downs as a team.

Diane Addonizio’s Role as a Mother

Diane Addonizio and Howie Long have three sons. Their first son, Christopher (Chris) Long, was born in 1985. Like his dad, Chris became an NFL player and even won two Super Bowl championships!

Their second son, Kyle Long, was born in 1988. He also played in the NFL as an offensive lineman and did very well. Now, he hosts a popular sports podcast.

Their youngest son, Howard Long Jr., was born in 1990. He chose a different path. He works in NFL operations and sales and helps teams behind the scenes. Diane has always been proud of her boys and supported them in every way.

Where Diane Addonizio Lives Today

Today, Diane Addonizio lives with Howie Long in Albemarle County, Virginia. They enjoy a quiet life together. Even though they sometimes attend NFL events or red carpet shows, they prefer to keep things private.

Diane is not on social media. She likes to focus on family, friends, and the simple joys of life. She shows that you don’t need to be in the spotlight to live a full and happy life.

Diane Addonizio’s Net Worth and Lifestyle

Diane Addonizio has an estimated net worth of around $1 million. This comes from her past work, her book, and her business efforts. Of course, she shares a wonderful life with Howie, who is worth about $16 million according to Celebrity Net Worth.

Together, they enjoy the rewards of hard work, but Diane stays grounded. She cares more about family than fame or fortune. Her life is proof that real success is about love, kindness, and being there for those who matter most.

Final Thoughts

Diane Addonizio’s story is truly heartwarming. She is not just Howie Long’s wife. She is a smart, strong woman who chose to put family first. From being a lawyer and author to raising three amazing sons, Diane has done it all with grace.

Her life reminds us that behind every star, there can be a quiet hero. Diane Addonizio is that hero. She inspires us all with her kindness, loyalty, and strength.

(FAQs)

How old is Diane Addonizio, and when is her birthday?

Diane Addonizio was born on 16 March 1962, which means she is 63 years old as of 2025 — can you believe she has looked so graceful through the decades?

What is Diane Addonizio’s height and weight?

Diane stands 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs about 128 pounds (58 kg) — fans are often shocked to learn she’s taller than many expect!

What was Diane Addonizio’s profession before becoming famous as Howie Long’s wife?

Diane is a trained lawyer who left her legal career early — many are surprised she gave up law to focus on family!

What is Diane Addonizio’s net worth today?

Diane Addonizio has an estimated net worth of about $1 million, even though she stepped away from a big career — shocking for someone married to a sports legend!

What was Diane Addonizio like when she was young?

As a young woman, Diane was known for her brains, beauty, and calm nature — she even caught Howie Long’s eye at college with her classic charm!

People also read:

• Marilyn Kroc Barg
• Dallas Yocum
• Enrica Cenzatti