Patricia Southall, also known as Pat Smith, is an American philanthropist, author, speaker, and former beauty queen. She first gained national recognition after winning Miss Virginia USA 1993 and later becoming first runner-up at Miss USA 1994. Over the years, Patricia Southall has built a public identity that extends far beyond pageantry centered on advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and family life. She is also widely known for her former marriage to actor and comedian Martin Lawrence and her current marriage to former NFL star Emmitt Smith. This article presents a fully corrected, comprehensive biography of Patricia Southall, with accurate personal details, balanced keyword usage, and an in-depth look at her life and work.
Patricia Southall at a Glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Patricia Annette Southall |
| Also known as | Pat Smith |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Degree in Journalism |
| Known for | Miss Virginia USA 1993; Miss USA 1994 (1st runner-up) |
| Former spouse | Martin Lawrence (m. 1995–div. 1997) |
| Current spouse | Emmitt Smith (m. 2000–present) |
| Children | Four (blended family) |
| Occupation | Philanthropist, author, speaker |
Early Life and Education
Patricia Southall was born in the United States and demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills from an early age. These qualities later influenced her academic and professional choices. She pursued a degree in journalism, which helped her develop confidence in public speaking, writing, and media engagement. Her educational background would become especially valuable during her pageant career and later philanthropic work, allowing her to clearly articulate messages related to empowerment, faith, and service.
Pageant Career and National Recognition
Miss Virginia USA 1993
Patricia Southall rose to prominence after winning Miss Virginia USA 1993. Her performance stood out due to her poise, articulate responses, and strong presence. The title provided her with statewide recognition and the opportunity to compete on a national stage.
Miss USA 1994 First Runner-Up
Representing Virginia at Miss USA 1994, Southall finished as first runner-up. Although she did not win the national crown, the placement brought significant media exposure and opened doors to broader public engagement. Southall has frequently stated that pageantry helped shape her discipline, confidence, and sense of purpose.
Marriage to Martin Lawrence
Relationship and Wedding
In 1995, Patricia Southall married actor and comedian Martin Lawrence, who was at the height of his fame through stand-up comedy, television, and film. Their marriage attracted substantial media attention due to Lawrence’s celebrity status and Southall’s pageant background.
Daughter and Family Life
During their marriage, the couple welcomed a daughter, Jasmine Lawrence, who later pursued a career in acting and modeling. Patricia Southall has consistently emphasized the importance of motherhood and maintaining stability for her child despite public scrutiny.
Divorce and Moving Forward
Patricia Southall and Martin Lawrence divorced in 1997. Following the separation, Southall chose to live a more private life, focusing on parenting, faith, and personal growth rather than entertainment publicity. Both parties have remained largely respectful and private regarding the details of their divorce.
Marriage to Emmitt Smith
A New Chapter
In 2000, Patricia Southall married Emmitt Smith, widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Their marriage marked a new chapter focused on shared values, faith, and service.
Family and Children
Together, Patricia Southall and Emmitt Smith have children of their own and also share a blended family that includes children from previous relationships. Southall often speaks publicly about the importance of unity, communication, and purpose-driven parenting.
Career Beyond Pageants
Author and Speaker
Patricia Southall is also an author and motivational speaker, known for addressing themes such as:
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Women’s self-worth
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Identity and faith
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Leadership and service
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Family and personal growth
Her journalism background enhances her ability to communicate authentically and connect with diverse audiences.
Treasure You Initiative
Southall founded Treasure You, a women-centered initiative designed to help women and young girls understand their value and potential. The organization hosts conferences, workshops, and outreach programs focused on empowerment, confidence, and resilience.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities
Patricia Southall plays an active leadership role in Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, which supports:
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Educational advancement
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Youth development programs
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Community enrichment initiatives
Her philanthropic philosophy emphasizes sustainable impact rather than short-term visibility.
Advocacy and Faith-Based Work
In addition to formal charity work, Southall is deeply involved in faith-based outreach and mentorship. She is respected for combining advocacy with authenticity, often highlighting lived experience rather than celebrity status.
Public Image and Personal Values
Patricia Southall is frequently admired for how she has navigated public attention transitioning from pageants and celebrity marriage to a life centered on service and purpose. Rather than remaining in the entertainment spotlight, she deliberately chose paths aligned with integrity, faith, and long-term impact. Her story resonates with many women who see her as an example of redefining success beyond fame or titles.
Legacy
Patricia Southall’s life reflects growth, resilience, and intentional reinvention. From pageant success to a high-profile marriage with Martin Lawrence, and later a long-standing partnership with Emmitt Smith, she has consistently chosen a path rooted in service, faith, and leadership. Today, Patricia Southall is respected not simply for who she married, but for the lasting impact she continues to make through advocacy and philanthropy.
FAQs:
1. Who is Patricia Southall?
Patricia Southall is a former beauty queen, philanthropist, author, and speaker best known for being Miss Virginia USA 1993, her marriage to Martin Lawrence, and her current marriage to Emmitt Smith.
2. Was Patricia Southall married to Martin Lawrence?
Yes. She was married to Martin Lawrence from 1995 to 1997, and they share one daughter.
3. Is Patricia Southall married now?
Yes. She has been married to Emmitt Smith since 2000.
4. What is Patricia Southall known for today?
She is known for philanthropy, women’s empowerment initiatives, public speaking, and nonprofit leadership.
5. How many children does Patricia Southall have?
She has four children as part of a blended family.