Diane Addonizio is a name many people hear, but not everyone knows her story. She is the wife of NFL legend Howie Long, but she is also much more than that. She is a lawyer, a businesswoman, an author, and a mother of three. She is known for her calm, kind, and private nature.
This article will share Diane’s life in a very simple and friendly way. We will look at her early life, her education, and how she met Howie Long. We will also learn about her family, her choices, and the quiet strength that makes her special. By the end, you will know who Diane Addonizio really is behind the name.
Who is Diane Addonizio?
Diane Addonizio is an American lawyer who later became a businesswoman and author. She is best known as the longtime wife of former NFL star Howie Long. Even though she is connected to a very famous family, she has always preferred a quiet life away from the spotlight. She enjoys simple things and does not like to be the center of attention.
She was born on 16 March 1962 in Red Bank, New Jersey, and grew up in a loving home. Diane has a warm personality and is known for her grace and kindness. She raised three sons who all grew into strong and successful men. Many people admire her because she chose family over fame and stayed true to her values.
Diane’s Early Life & Family
Diane grew up in Monmouth County in Red Bank, New Jersey. Her childhood was simple, peaceful, and full of family love. Her father, Frank Addonizio, served in both World War II and the Korean War. After serving the country, he worked in security. Her mother, Marie Cecere, stayed home and took care of the family. Diane learned early in life how important family and hard work are.
She also has a brother named James, who later became a lawyer. Diane and her brother grew up learning the value of discipline, respect, and honesty. Her home was not loud or flashy. It was a place where people cared for each other and supported each other. These values shaped Diane into the calm and strong woman she is today.
Diane studied and became a lawyer
Diane always enjoyed learning new things. She loved to read, study, and explore different subjects. After finishing school, she went to Villanova University in Pennsylvania. There, she studied Classical Studies, which means she learned about ancient history, old cultures, and famous ideas from the past. She enjoyed her time in college and grew into a confident young woman.
After her time at Villanova, Diane moved to California to study law. She joined the University of Southern California (USC) School of Law and worked hard to earn her law degree. Studying law is not easy, but Diane stayed focused and completed her degree with pride. She later worked as a lawyer for a short time. Her education helped shape her strong mind and balanced way of thinking.
Diane Addonizio met Howie Long when they were both students at Villanova University. Diane was a freshman, and Howie was a sophomore who played football. Their meeting was simple, but it changed both of their lives forever. They became friends first and slowly got to know each other better. Diane liked his warm nature and strong work habits, while Howie liked her calm and caring personality.
Their first date was not a fancy or big moment. Howie invited Diane to his room to watch an NFL game on TV. It was a quiet setting, but it created a strong bond between them. Diane later said she had never met someone who was so big, so strong, and yet so polite and kind. Their simple first date became the start of a long and loving partnership.
Diane’s Marriage to Howie Long
Diane Addonizio and Howie Long got married on June 27, 1982. Their wedding was private and filled with close family and friends. They did not choose a loud or showy event. Instead, they kept it sweet, warm, and personal, just like their relationship. The couple promised to support each other in every part of life, and they have done exactly that.
Their marriage has lasted more than 40 years, which is rare in the world of fame and sports. They stayed strong by trusting each other and staying close as a team. Many people once believed a rumor that Howie was married to actress Teri Hatcher, but that rumor is false. Howie Long has only ever been married to Diane Addonizio, and they remain one of the strongest couples in sports history.
Diane is the Mother of Three

Diane Addonizio is a proud mother of three sons. Her first son, Chris Long, was born in 1985. He followed his father and became a successful NFL player. Chris won two Super Bowls and played for teams like the Rams, Patriots, and Eagles. Chris is married to Megan O’Malley and has two sons, Waylon and Luke. Diane loves being a grandmother, and she enjoys quiet moments with her grandkids.
Her second son, Kyle Long, was born in 1988. Kyle also played in the NFL as an offensive guard for the Chicago Bears. He made a name for himself with his strength and skill. After retiring, Kyle joined the media world and often appears on his brother’s popular show, “Green Light.” Diane supported him in school, in sports, and in life, just like she did with her other sons.
Her youngest son, Howard Long Jr., was born in 1990. He chose a different path from his father and brothers. He did not play in the NFL but instead went into sports business. Howard Jr. works in NFL operations and premium sales for the Raiders and has built a strong career behind the scenes. Diane is proud of him for finding his own way and doing what he loves.
Diane Addonizio’s Career
After finishing law school, Diane worked as a lawyer for a short time. She was smart, focused, and good at her work. But when she married Howie and later became a mother, she decided to step away from law so she could take care of her home and children. Diane believed that being present for her children was more important than anything else, and she stood by that choice.
Even though she stopped practicing law, Diane did not stop growing. She explored business opportunities and invested in different ideas. She also became an author. In 2000, she wrote a book called “He’s Just My Dad!” The book shares stories and photos of famous athletes and their children. It shows the soft, family side of sports stars, something many fans never get to see. Diane’s love for family is clear in every page of her book.
Where is Diane Today?
Today, Diane Addonizio lives a quiet and peaceful life in Albemarle County, Virginia. She does not enjoy being on social media, and she prefers to keep her personal life private. She spends her days with family, close friends, and simple joys. Diane sometimes attends public events with Howie or her sons, but she usually stays away from the spotlight.
She loves calm days, warm family dinners, and time at home. Even though she is married to a famous NFL legend, Diane Addonizio has always stayed grounded. She lives a life full of love, peace, and strong family values. Many people admire her gentle nature and the way she protects her family from unnecessary attention.
Diane Addonizio’s Net Worth
Diane Addonizio has an estimated net worth of around $1 million. This amount comes from her earlier work as a lawyer, her book, and her business efforts. She also shares a comfortable life with Howie, who has an estimated net worth of around $16 million. Together, they enjoy the rewards of many years of hard work and smart choices.
Even with this comfortable lifestyle, Diane is not someone who shows off. She prefers simple things, like peaceful moments at home and quality time with her family. Her life shows that real happiness does not come from fame or flashy things, but from love, care, and staying true to what matters most.
Final thoughts
Diane Addonizio is more than just the wife of an NFL star. She is a lawyer, a businesswoman, an author, and a caring mother. Her story shows how strong, calm, and loving she is. She chose family over fame and built a life full of meaning and peace. Diane teaches us that quiet strength can be just as powerful as loud success.
Her life with Howie Long is a beautiful example of loyalty and support. Her sons are proof of her love and guidance. And her private lifestyle reminds us that you do not need to be in the spotlight to live a happy and rich life. Diane Addonizio is a true example of grace, warmth, and a steady heart.
(FAQs)
How old is Diane Addonizio now?
Diane Addonizio is 63 years old. She was born on March 16, 1962.
How many children does Diane Addonizio have?
Diane Addonizio has three children. All three are sons, and each of them has built a strong career in sports.
Are Diane Addonizio and Howie Long still together?
Yes, Diane Addonizio and Howie Long are still together. They have been married since 1982, and their marriage has stayed strong for more than 40 years.
Is Diane still working as a lawyer?
No. Diane is a non-practicing lawyer. She left the law years ago to focus on her family and her children’s growth.
Where does Diane Addonizio live today?
Diane lives a very quiet life in Albemarle County, Virginia.

















