Who Is Ellen Heidingsfelder? Inside the Life of Cooper Manning’s Wife

Ellen Heidingsfelder is more than just the wife of Cooper Manning, the older brother of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning. She is a highly respected lawyer, a devoted mother, and an influential figure in her community. While her family name often brings attention because of the football dynasty she married into, Ellen’s story stands firmly on its own. She represents dedication, intelligence, and compassion, balancing a demanding legal career with a fulfilling family life. This article takes you inside the life of Ellen Heidingsfelder, exploring her roots, career, marriage, children, and the lasting impact she continues to make.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Ellen Heidingsfelder
Date of Birth: December 20, 1968
Age: 56 years (as of 2025)
Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Parents: Charles E. Heidingsfelder and Dot Heidingsfelder
Siblings: Jane Heidingsfelder and Molly Silvia
Education: Academy of the Sacred Heart, University of Virginia, Loyola University Law School
Profession: Lawyer (specializing in family law and civil litigation)
Marital Status: Married to Cooper Manning (since 1999)
Children: May Manning, Arch Manning, and Heid Manning
Religion: Catholic

Early Life and Family Background

Ellen Heidingsfelder was born on December 20, 1968, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Growing up in the heart of the South, she was raised with traditional values and a strong Catholic faith. Her parents, Charles E. Heidingsfelder and Dot Heidingsfelder, instilled in her the importance of family, education, and service. Ellen grew up alongside her two sisters, Jane and Molly Silvia, and together they shared a close bond that reflected the family-first culture of New Orleans.

The Heidingsfelder family was deeply rooted in their faith, attending church regularly and participating actively in their community. This strong upbringing helped shape Ellen’s character, giving her a sense of compassion and responsibility that would later define her personal and professional life. Even today, she remains proud of her New Orleans roots and continues to live in the city that shaped her.

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Education: From Sacred Heart to Law School

Ellen’s educational journey began at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in New Orleans, a prestigious school known for academic excellence and spiritual guidance. Her strong academic performance and leadership qualities set her apart from a young age. After graduating, she pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia, one of the most respected universities in the United States.

At UVA, Ellen was known for her dedication to academics and her active involvement in extracurricular activities. She developed a passion for justice and public service, which naturally guided her toward the legal profession. To fulfill this dream, she went on to study law, with reports pointing to Loyola University Law School in New Orleans, though some sources also connect her to Tulane University Law School. Regardless of the institution, what is clear is that Ellen’s legal training gave her the foundation for a long and successful career.

Legal Career and Achievements

Ellen Heidingsfelder built a strong career in law, specializing in family law, corporate law, and civil litigation. Her reputation as an attorney is built on her ability to handle complex legal issues with diligence and compassion. Known for her calm presence and sharp intellect, Ellen has helped countless clients navigate difficult situations.

Her work has not been limited to the courtroom. Ellen is recognized as a mentor to younger attorneys, particularly women pursuing careers in law. Her approach combines legal expertise with a genuine desire to serve, and that reputation has earned her great respect within New Orleans’s legal community. Beyond her professional work, she is committed to pro bono services, ensuring that underprivileged individuals also have access to justice.

Meeting Cooper Manning: A Love Story Rooted in Friendship

Ellen’s personal life gained public attention through her relationship with Cooper Manning. The two grew up in the same circles in New Orleans and shared a long friendship before their relationship turned romantic. They were married in 1999 in a Catholic ceremony that honored Ellen’s faith and family traditions.

Faith played an important role in their marriage. Raised Catholic, Ellen encouraged Cooper to convert before their wedding, and together they have built a home centered around shared values of faith, family, and community. Their relationship has remained strong for more than two decades, supported by mutual respect and love.

Who Is Cooper Manning?

To understand Ellen’s life, it helps to know more about her husband. Cooper Manning is the eldest son of legendary quarterback Archie Manning and Olivia Manning. While his younger brothers, Peyton and Eli, became Super Bowl-winning NFL quarterbacks, Cooper’s football career was cut short due to a medical condition known as spinal stenosis.

Despite this setback, Cooper carved out a successful career in business and as a media personality. He works in energy trading and is also a host on Fox Sports. Known for his humor and charisma, Cooper has become a beloved figure in the sports community. Together, Ellen and Cooper form a dynamic partnership that combines Ellen’s quiet strength with Cooper’s outgoing personality.

Ellen and Cooper Manning’s Children

Family is at the center of Ellen’s life, and she and Cooper are proud parents of three children. Their oldest, May Manning, was born in 2002 and excelled as a volleyball player at the Academy of the Sacred Heart before enrolling at the University of Virginia. Arch Manning, born in 2004, is the most recognized of the siblings, widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the nation. He signed with the Texas Longhorns and continues the Manning family’s football legacy. Their youngest son, Heid, born in 2006, attends Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, where he is also active in sports.

Ellen has been a hands-on mother, actively involved in her children’s education, sports, and social activities. Together with Cooper, she emphasizes humility, hard work, and giving back—values that their children are now carrying forward.

Family Life and Values

Despite the fame surrounding the Manning name, Ellen and Cooper have worked hard to keep their family grounded. They live in New Orleans and maintain a strong connection to their local community. Their Catholic faith plays a central role in their daily lives, guiding their parenting style and outlook on life.

The Mannings are known for their close-knit relationships, and Ellen’s household reflects that same dynamic. Family dinners, attending games together, and supporting one another’s goals are all part of their rhythm. For Ellen, family is not just important—it is her foundation.

Community Work and Philanthropy

Ellen Heidingsfelder is admired not only as a lawyer and mother but also as a community advocate. She is involved in several charitable organizations in New Orleans, focusing on education, healthcare, and support for underprivileged communities. Her contributions often extend beyond financial support, as she gives her time and expertise to help others.

Her dedication to service is a reflection of the values she grew up with and continues to instill in her children. For Ellen, success is measured not just in professional accomplishments but in the difference she makes in the lives of others.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Ellen’s career as a lawyer has contributed significantly to her personal success. Her estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, reflecting decades of work in the legal field. Her husband Cooper has an estimated net worth of around $13 million, primarily from his business and television career. Their son Arch Manning, still in college, already has a name, image, and likeness valuation of over $2 million, making him one of the most marketable young athletes in the country.

Despite their wealth, Ellen and her family lead a lifestyle that emphasizes balance. They enjoy the benefits of financial success but remain focused on faith, tradition, and community.

Legacy and Influence

Ellen Heidingsfelder may not seek the spotlight, but her influence is undeniable. She is a role model for young women who aspire to succeed in law while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Her story shows that it is possible to be both career-driven and family-oriented, and that quiet dedication can leave a lasting mark.

Her legacy is defined not just by her ties to the famous Manning family, but by the example she sets as a professional, wife, mother, and community leader. Ellen’s influence extends well beyond her immediate circle, inspiring others to balance ambition with compassion.

Conclusion

Ellen Heidingsfelder’s life is an inspiring blend of professional success, family devotion, and community service. While her name is often connected to the Manning football dynasty, she has created her own legacy as a respected lawyer and compassionate leader. Her story shows the power of balancing career, faith, and family, reminding us that true influence is not always about being in the spotlight—it is about the values you live by every day. As a lawyer, wife, and mother, Ellen Heidingsfelder continues to inspire with her quiet strength and unwavering commitment to those around her.

FAQs About Ellen Heidingsfelder

Who is Ellen Heidingsfelder?
Ellen Heidingsfelder is a New Orleans-based lawyer and the wife of Cooper Manning, making her part of the famous Manning football family. She is known for her successful legal career and her community involvement.

When was Ellen Heidingsfelder born?
She was born on December 20, 1968, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Where did Ellen Heidingsfelder study?
She attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, and later received her law degree, most commonly reported from Loyola University Law School in New Orleans.

What does Ellen Heidingsfelder do for a living?
She is a practicing lawyer specializing in family law, corporate law, and civil litigation.

Who is Ellen Heidingsfelder married to?
She is married to Cooper Manning, the eldest son of Archie Manning and the older brother of Peyton and Eli Manning.

How many children does Ellen Heidingsfelder have?
Ellen and Cooper Manning have three children: May, Arch, and Heid.

What is Ellen Heidingsfelder’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million, with her husband Cooper’s estimated at around $13 million.