Michelle Goeringer is a woman who represents strength, resilience, and grace. While many people know her as the former wife of NFL coach Rex Ryan, her life story is about much more than that. She built a meaningful career, raised a loving family, and made a lasting impact in her community, all while staying grounded and true to herself.
Michelle’s story is about quiet leadership, steady purpose, and the belief that real success is built on integrity and hard work. From her early life in Oklahoma to her achievements in law, business, and philanthropy, she has proven that true influence doesn’t need a spotlight—it comes from living with honesty, compassion, and strength.
🌸 Personal Details
👩 Full Name: Michelle Goeringer
🎂 Date of Birth: 1963
📍 Place of Birth: Clinton, Oklahoma, USA
🎓 Education: Bachelor’s Degree, Southwestern Oklahoma State University
💼 Profession: Entrepreneur, Former Family Law Attorney
🏢 Company: Founder of MGR Enterprises (Real Estate Development & Investment)
💞 Marital Status: Divorced
❤️ Ex-Spouse: Rex Ryan (Former NFL Head Coach)
👶 Children: Two sons – Payton Ryan and Seth Ryan
🌎 Nationality: American
🏠 Residence: United States
📅 Age (as of 2025): 61 Years
💰 Estimated Net Worth: Not publicly disclosed (believed to be substantial)
Early Life and Family Background
Michelle Goeringer was born in 1963 in Clinton, Oklahoma, a small town known for its strong sense of community and traditional values. She was raised primarily by her mother, who played a big role in shaping her character and teaching her the importance of independence, responsibility, and kindness. Growing up alongside two sisters, Michelle developed a deep sense of loyalty and family connection that stayed with her throughout her life.
Her childhood was simple but full of lessons that helped her understand the importance of hard work and determination. Living in a modest home, she learned early on that strength doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from facing challenges with courage and persistence. Those early experiences helped form the foundation of the person she would become: thoughtful, strong, and deeply grounded in her values.
How She Looks
Michelle Goeringer is a graceful and elegant woman who carries herself with quiet confidence. She maintains a healthy and youthful look through her dedication to fitness and balanced living. Her style is simple yet refined, and her warm smile and calm presence make her naturally beautiful and approachable.
Education and College Life
Michelle was a focused and determined student who always took her education seriously. After completing high school, she attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University in the 1980s, where she also played basketball. Her time as a student-athlete helped her develop discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Balancing academics and sports showed her how to manage responsibility and stay focused under pressure. During her college years, Michelle met Rex Ryan, who was then working as a graduate assistant football coach.
Their personalities were quite different—Michelle was calm and reserved, while Rex was energetic and outgoing—but they shared a love for sports and a strong work ethic. Over time, friendship turned into admiration, and admiration turned into love. Michelle’s college years not only gave her a good education but also introduced her to the person who would become an important part of her life’s journey.
Marriage to Rex Ryan and Family Life
Michelle and Rex Ryan married in 1992, beginning a life together that would take them through many cities, football seasons, and personal milestones. Being married to an NFL coach came with a fast-paced and unpredictable lifestyle, but Michelle handled it with grace and stability. The couple had two sons, Payton and Seth, and Michelle made sure their home life remained consistent no matter where they moved.
She built routines, traditions, and family rituals that gave her children a sense of security even when the world around them was constantly changing. Her role as a wife and mother was one she approached with love and strength, ensuring that her family always came first. She taught her sons the importance of humility, respect, and hard work—values that stayed with them into adulthood. While Rex was often in the public eye, Michelle chose to stay private, focusing on her family and building a strong, grounded household.
Who is Rex Ryan?
Rex Ryan is a former American football coach and current sports analyst, best known for his bold personality and defensive expertise in the NFL. Born on December 13, 1962, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, he comes from a well-known football family—his father, Buddy Ryan, was a legendary NFL coach. Rex gained national fame as the head coach of the New York Jets, leading them to back-to-back AFC Championship Games in 2009 and 2010.
He later coached the Buffalo Bills before moving into broadcasting, where his energetic and outspoken style made him a fan favorite on ESPN. Despite his tough image on the field, those close to him describe Rex as loyal, passionate, and deeply dedicated to both his family and the sport he loves.
Michelle Goeringer’s Kids
Michelle Goeringer is the proud mother of two sons, Payton Ryan and Seth Ryan, from her marriage to former NFL coach Rex Ryan. Both of her boys grew up around football and learned the value of discipline and teamwork from their parents. Michelle made sure they had a normal and grounded upbringing, teaching them respect, kindness, and responsibility. As adults, both Payton and Seth have chosen careers related to football, carrying on their family’s love for the sport while reflecting the strong values and steady guidance their mother always gave them.
Career as a Lawyer and Entrepreneur
Michelle Goeringer was not only a dedicated wife and mother but also an ambitious professional. She began her career as a family law attorney, helping clients through some of the most challenging times of their lives. Her compassion, fairness, and ability to listen made her well respected in the legal field. Michelle’s understanding of human nature and her commitment to doing what was right set her apart as a lawyer who cared deeply about her clients. However, because Rex’s career required frequent relocations, Michelle later decided to move into a more flexible field.
In 2001, she founded MGR Enterprises, a real estate development and investment company. Through her business, she combined her legal knowledge with her understanding of real estate markets, making smart and strategic investments. Her company grew successfully under her leadership, showing her ability to adapt, learn, and succeed in different professional environments. Michelle proved that she could build a strong business while maintaining her family responsibilities, setting an example of balance and determination for others to follow.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Michelle Goeringer has always believed that helping others is one of life’s greatest purposes. Over the years, she has contributed to various charitable causes, often preferring to stay out of the spotlight. She has supported organizations such as the Girls in Sports Foundation, which empowers young girls through athletics, and the Hospice Foundation of Western New York, which provides support to families in need.
During Hurricane Sandy, Michelle organized toy drives and supply donations to help affected communities. Her kindness and empathy extend far beyond financial contributions—she gives her time, energy, and heart to causes that matter. Her commitment to community work reflects her genuine care for people and her belief that small acts of compassion can create lasting change.
Life After Divorce
After more than twenty years of marriage, Michelle and Rex Ryan divorced in 2017. Despite the end of their marriage, they have maintained mutual respect and continue to co-parent their sons with understanding and care. Michelle chose to keep her personal life private and focused on personal growth, her business, and giving back to others.
She also began mentoring younger wives of coaches and athletes, helping them navigate the pressures of being connected to high-profile careers while maintaining their own identity and independence. Life after divorce became a period of rediscovery and empowerment for Michelle, where she continued to thrive personally and professionally.
Personal Life and Interests
Michelle Goeringer lives a private and balanced life focused on family, health, and personal growth. She enjoys staying active and has followed a steady fitness routine for many years, often starting her day with a run or treadmill workout. Reading is one of her favorite hobbies, especially classic literature by authors like Tolstoy, which gives her peace and perspective. She also loves photography, capturing nature and family moments, and has even learned to speak Spanish to connect with more people. Michelle’s interests show her love for learning, self-care, and the simple joys of life that keep her grounded and fulfilled.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Although Michelle Goeringer’s exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed, it is clear that she has built a stable and successful financial future. Her experience as a family law attorney, combined with her success in real estate development, has contributed to her long-term financial security. MGR Enterprises, the company she founded, has managed multiple successful investment projects, giving her a strong presence in the real estate industry.
Her careful planning, business acumen, and disciplined work ethic have all played important roles in her success. Despite her financial achievements, Michelle has always been modest and private about her wealth. She believes that true success is not measured by money but by character, impact, and integrity. Her story shows that when people work with passion and honesty, success follows naturally.
Legacy and Influence
Michelle Goeringer’s legacy is one of integrity, quiet leadership, and inner strength. She has shown that true influence comes not from fame but from how one lives, works, and treats others. Throughout her life, she has balanced career, family, and personal growth with unwavering grace. Her story is a reminder that resilience, humility, and kindness are the real markers of success. She continues to inspire others by showing that a fulfilling life is not built in the spotlight—it’s built through character, compassion, and authenticity.
Conclusion
Michelle Goeringer’s story is one of quiet strength, resilience, and purpose. She has built a meaningful life through hard work, integrity, and compassion—balancing family, career, and personal growth with grace. From her early years in Oklahoma to her success in law, business, and philanthropy, she has shown that true success isn’t about fame or attention but about living with honesty and heart. Michelle continues to inspire others through her example, proving that a strong spirit, kind nature, and steady determination can create a life of lasting impact and genuine happiness.
FAQs About Michelle Goeringer
1. Who is Michelle Goeringer?
Michelle Goeringer is an American entrepreneur, former family law attorney, and philanthropist best known as the ex-wife of former NFL coach Rex Ryan.
2. How old is Michelle Goeringer?
She was born in 1963 in Clinton, Oklahoma, which makes her around 61 years old as of 2025.
3. Is Michelle Goeringer still married to Rex Ryan?
No, Michelle and Rex Ryan divorced in 2017 after more than two decades of marriage but continue to share mutual respect and co-parent their two sons.
4. What does Michelle Goeringer do for a living?
Michelle is the founder of MGR Enterprises, a real estate development and investment company, and she also participates in community and charity work.
5. How many children does Michelle Goeringer have?
She has two sons, Payton Ryan and Seth Ryan, both of whom have careers related to football.
6. What is Michelle Goeringer’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is not publicly known, but her success as an attorney and real estate investor suggests she has achieved strong financial stability.
7. Where is Michelle Goeringer now?
Michelle currently lives a private life focused on her business, philanthropy, and family, continuing to inspire others through her strength and dedication.
