Kelly Orgeron: Where Is Ed Orgeron’s Ex-Wife Now?

In the world of college football, few names ring louder than Ed Orgeron, the fiery former head coach of LSU who led the Tigers to a National Championship in 2019. But behind the scenes of Ed’s remarkable career was Kelly Orgeron, his wife for over two decades. Their story—marked by love, family, football, and eventual separation—captivated fans across the country. Now, years after their divorce, many are asking: “Kelly Orgeron: Where Is Ed Orgeron’s Ex-Wife Now?”

This article dives deep into her life, from her early years to her time with Ed and beyond, offering insights into her personal journey, her family’s legacy, and her life today.

Quick Bio Table Kelly Orgeron

Early Life and Background

Kelly Orgeron was born Kelly Owens on December 30, 1964, in Lake City, Arkansas. She grew up in a traditional, close-knit American household and experienced both the simplicity and challenges of small-town life. As one of four siblings, Kelly learned the values of hard work, family, and community early on—principles she would carry into adulthood.

Age and Physical Attributes

As of 2025, Kelly Orgeron is 60 years old. While she has largely kept out of the public eye since her divorce, past images show her to be a fit and stylish woman with a poised demeanor. She stands around 5 feet 7 inches tall and has been described as graceful and down-to-earth.

Education and Professional Career

Kelly attended Lake City High School and was reportedly active in both academics and athletics. While she didn’t pursue a high-profile professional career, she played an essential role as a homemaker and supportive partner throughout Ed Orgeron’s coaching journey. She managed the home front while Ed moved across various states for coaching positions.

Her role was especially important during the LSU years, as Kelly helped keep the family grounded while dealing with the pressures of national-level college football.

Father’s Background

Kelly’s father, Bobby Owens, was a respected figure in Lake City. He was a small business owner and active in community service, values that he passed on to his daughter. His commitment to family and community shaped Kelly’s grounded personality.

Mother’s Background

Her mother, Janis Owens, was a homemaker and known for her warm hospitality. Janis emphasized traditional family roles, and her presence in Kelly’s life was one of deep emotional and moral support. These maternal influences shaped Kelly’s outlook on marriage and motherhood.

Meeting and Marriage with Ed Orgeron

Kelly met Ed Orgeron in the early 1990s while he was working as a defensive line coach. Their connection was instant. Ed, known for his intensity and deep Louisiana accent, found a calming presence in Kelly. They married in 1997 and were together for over 23 years.

Their marriage spanned much of Ed’s coaching rise—from assistant positions to his head coaching roles at Ole Miss and eventually LSU. Throughout these years, Kelly was by his side, cheering him on, raising their children, and building a home base wherever his career took them.

Who They Are: Kelly and Ed Orgeron

Together, Kelly and Ed Orgeron became a recognizable couple in Louisiana. While Ed commanded attention on the field, Kelly managed things off the field. She often appeared at charity events, LSU functions, and public appearances. While not as vocal or high-profile as Ed, she maintained a quiet strength that many admired.

Children and Family Life

The couple has three sons, including Cody Orgeron, who played quarterback at McNeese State University. Kelly was highly involved in her sons’ upbringing, attending games and supporting their athletic ambitions.

She instilled discipline, humility, and love for education in her children, often while Ed was on the road with football. Friends of the family say that Kelly was the “glue” that kept the household running during Ed’s demanding career.

Impact on Career

Kelly’s influence on Ed Orgeron’s career was immense, though largely behind the scenes. During the 2019 championship season, Ed often credited her with helping him stay balanced. Her support enabled him to focus on coaching while she managed family responsibilities and personal matters.

Their marriage also served as a symbol of strength for many LSU fans who admired their seemingly solid relationship. Her absence was felt after their divorce, which coincided with Ed’s eventual departure from LSU.

Cultural Influence and Family Legacy

Kelly Orgeron belongs to a generation of women who supported successful men behind the scenes—raising families, managing homes, and dealing with the emotional and physical strains of fame and public life. In many ways, her story mirrors the traditional American football wife narrative, one that often gets overlooked.

Her son Cody Orgeron’s rise in college football also reflects her influence. The Orgeron family, both from Ed’s Cajun roots and Kelly’s Arkansas upbringing, represent a blend of Southern pride, tradition, and resilience.

Legal and Privacy Considerations

Kelly and Ed Orgeron filed for divorce in early 2020 after 23 years of marriage. The divorce was finalized quietly, with minimal public statements from either party. Court records show that the split was amicable and mutual, and both sought joint custody of their children.

Since the divorce, Kelly has maintained a very low profile, preferring privacy over publicity. She has stayed away from interviews and social media and is rarely seen at public events, which is her right as a private citizen.

Net Worth and Financial Standing

Although Kelly Orgeron has no known professional business or public enterprise, her long marriage to a successful coach has left her financially stable. Ed Orgeron’s LSU contract and severance package were reportedly worth millions. While exact figures are not public, Kelly’s estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 million, likely derived from settlements and shared marital assets.

Conclusion

Kelly Orgeron: Where Is Ed Orgeron’s Ex-Wife Now? The answer is simple yet profound—she is living her life privately, away from the media, likely in Louisiana, surrounded by family and loved ones. While Ed remains in the spotlight, Kelly has chosen peace and privacy after decades in a high-pressure environment.

Her story, often overlooked, is one of strength, family devotion, and quiet resilience. In the legacy of LSU football and Ed Orgeron’s career, Kelly Orgeron will always be a key, if understated, figure.

(FAQs) About Kelly Orgeron

1. Who is Kelly Orgeron?
Kelly Orgeron is the ex-wife of former LSU football coach Ed Orgeron and mother to three sons, including Cody Orgeron.

2. When did Kelly and Ed Orgeron get divorced?
They divorced in 2020 after more than 23 years of marriage.

3. Where is Kelly Orgeron now?
Kelly Orgeron lives a private life, likely in Louisiana, and is no longer involved in public events.

4. How many children do Kelly and Ed Orgeron have?
They have three sons, one of whom, Cody, played quarterback for McNeese State University.

5. What is Kelly Orgeron’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 million, mostly due to her divorce settlement with Ed Orgeron.