Kellie May Xiong Chauvin’s story is one of remarkable transformation from a refugee escaping conflict to a woman thrust unexpectedly into global headlines. Known as Derek Chauvin’s former wife, her life journey spans cultural struggles, professional success, public scrutiny, and ultimately, quiet reinvention. This article takes an in-depth look at who she was before the spotlight, what happened during the tumultuous years of her marriage, and how she continues to live beyond public attention.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Kellie May Xiong Chauvin |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1974 |
| Age (2025) | 50 years old |
| Place of Birth | Laos |
| Ethnicity | Hmong-American |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Radiology Technician, Real Estate Agent |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1 Million |
| Marital Status | Divorced (from Derek Chauvin) |
| Children | 2 (from first marriage) |
| Notable Title | Mrs. Minnesota America Winner |
| Current Residence | Private / Undisclosed Location |
| Social Media | Not Active |
Early Life and Family Roots
Kellie May Xiong Chauvin, known publicly as Derek Chauvin’s former wife, was born in Laos in 1974. Her family fled the country during the war, seeking refuge in Thailand before resettling in the United States. Growing up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, she faced language barriers and cultural challenges common to immigrant families. Her early experiences in refugee camps instilled in her a sense of resilience and independence that would later define her life.
Kellie belongs to the Hmong community, a Southeast Asian ethnic group with a rich cultural heritage. Her family’s story is one of endurance navigating hardship, starting anew, and chasing stability in a foreign land. This background played a key role in shaping her discipline, humility, and appreciation for opportunity.
Education and Career Path
After completing high school in Wisconsin, Kellie pursued higher education in healthcare. She earned an associate degree in radiology and began working at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis. Her role in the emergency department exposed her to diverse people and stories, deepening her empathy and sense of service.
Later, she transitioned into real estate, earning a license and joining a Minnesota agency. Her career change reflected her desire to help families build lives and homes a pursuit that mirrored her own family’s search for belonging.
Personal Life Before Derek Chauvin
Before marrying Derek Chauvin, Kellie was married once before under traditional Hmong customs when she was in her late teens. That marriage lasted about ten years and resulted in two children. Despite early challenges, she managed to build a stable life as a single mother and continued to pursue her career ambitions.
Her first marriage taught her independence and perseverance qualities that would later help her navigate public scrutiny and emotional turbulence.
Meeting Derek Chauvin
Kellie met Derek Chauvin while working at Hennepin County Medical Center. Derek, then a police officer, brought a suspect to the hospital for a medical evaluation. Their connection began as a chance encounter, but it soon evolved into a deeper relationship. They married in 2010 after several years of dating.
By many accounts, their marriage seemed stable from the outside. Kellie described Derek as polite and respectful, though reserved. Together, they built a quiet suburban life, maintaining a low public profile. Kellie continued working in real estate, and in 2018, she made headlines for a very different reason winning the title of Mrs. Minnesota America. Her win was significant, as she became one of the first Hmong women to earn the crown.
The Turning Point: Public Scandal
In May 2020, the death of George Floyd in police custody shook the world. Derek Chauvin, her husband at the time, became the central figure in the case. Within days of the incident, Kellie filed for divorce, citing an irretrievable breakdown in the marriage. Her attorney issued a statement expressing Kellie’s sympathy for Floyd’s family and her desire for privacy.
The timing of her decision drew public attention. Many saw it as an act of separation a way to distance herself from the controversy. The divorce was finalized in early 2021. Court documents revealed that the couple owned multiple properties and assets, which were divided as part of the settlement.
Legal Challenges and Public Scrutiny
Shortly after the divorce filing, Kellie and Derek were charged with tax-related offenses in Minnesota. Prosecutors alleged that the couple failed to report over $400,000 in income and underpaid taxes for several years. In February 2023, Kellie pleaded guilty to two felony counts of aiding and abetting tax fraud. She was sentenced to 20 days in jail and three years of probation, in addition to restitution payments.
Despite the legal trouble, Kellie’s demeanor in court was composed. She accepted responsibility for her part, demonstrating accountability and cooperation.
Life After Divorce
Since her divorce, Kellie has maintained an extremely private life. She reportedly changed her surname back to Xiong and relocated from Minnesota. There are no confirmed public appearances or interviews from her since 2021. Friends and former colleagues have described her as quiet, family-focused, and determined to protect her children’s privacy.
Her withdrawal from public life is understandable. The events of 2020 cast an intense spotlight on her family, subjecting her to scrutiny that few could withstand. Choosing silence and solitude may have been her way of reclaiming control over her narrative.
Personal Traits and Physical Appearance
Kellie is often described as graceful and soft-spoken. Standing at approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm), she carries herself with calm confidence. Her dark hair, expressive features, and composed manner often stood out during her pageant years. Those who knew her in professional settings have spoken of her kindness, empathy, and professionalism.
Now around 50 years old, Kellie maintains a modest lifestyle. While details about her current occupation are scarce, she is believed to have stepped away from public-facing roles.
Financial Standing and Net Worth
At the time of her divorce, reports suggested that the couple’s assets were divided, with Kellie receiving a larger share of their combined property. Estimates place her current net worth around $1 million, largely from real estate investments and her previous career. However, these figures are speculative, as Kellie has not publicly disclosed her finances.
Despite her financial stability, Kellie’s focus appears to be personal growth and family rather than wealth. Her decisions since 2020 suggest a priority on emotional recovery and rebuilding a peaceful life.
Social Media and Public Presence
Kellie has no verified social media accounts. Any online profiles under her name appear inactive or private. Before 2020, she occasionally shared posts related to real estate and pageant activities, but all have since been deleted or hidden.
Her disappearance from social media aligns with her desire to live quietly and avoid public discourse. In an era where many seek validation through online platforms, her absence underscores her intent to heal privately.
Fun Facts and Lesser-Known Details
- Kellie was the first Hmong woman to win Mrs. Minnesota, a point of pride for her community.
- She has a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and once volunteered with Hmong organizations in Minnesota.
- Before the scandal, she was known to help refugees adjust to American life an echo of her own early struggles.
- Despite challenges, those who know her describe her as grounded, humble, and driven by faith and family.
Lessons and Reflections
Kellie’s life reflects transformation and endurance. She rose from a refugee background to become a symbol of success and representation for her community. The events of 2020, however, changed the course of her story. Yet, instead of succumbing to public judgment, she chose discretion and renewal.
Her decision to leave her marriage following George Floyd’s death was not just legal it was symbolic. It represented a boundary, a statement that she would not be defined by another’s actions. Her continued silence since then speaks to maturity and the recognition that healing often requires distance.
The Woman Beyond the Headlines
Today, Kellie Xiong Chauvin remains largely unseen, a private citizen rebuilding her life away from media glare. To many, she represents resilience a woman who endured tragedy, loss, and scrutiny but emerged with dignity intact. Her story is less about fame or scandal and more about survival and self-redemption.
In a world obsessed with public personas, Kellie’s journey reminds us that sometimes strength lies in silence, and healing is found in stepping away from the noise.
Conclusion
Kellie May Xiong Chauvin’s life after the divorce from Derek Chauvin reveals resilience born from hardship and hope. Her story, though marked by controversy, is ultimately about rebuilding a life grounded in privacy, dignity, and quiet determination. As she continues to move forward away from the spotlight, she stands as a reminder that healing can emerge even from the most public of storms.
FAQs
Who is Derek Chauvin’s wife?
Derek Chauvin’s former wife is Kellie May Xiong Chauvin, a Hmong-American woman who was born in Laos in 1974 and later moved to the United States as a refugee. She worked in healthcare and real estate before stepping away from public life after their divorce.
What happened to Kellie Chauvin after the divorce?
After her divorce from Derek Chauvin in 2021, Kellie chose to live privately. Reports suggest she changed her last name back to Xiong, relocated, and focused on family life away from the media spotlight.
Does Kellie Chauvin have children?
Yes, she has two children from her first marriage, which ended before she married Derek Chauvin. She and Derek did not have any children together.
What is Kellie Chauvin’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $1 million, mostly from her real estate career and divorce settlement. However, exact financial details remain private.
Is Kellie Chauvin active on social media?
No verified social media profiles are publicly active under her name. She appears to have deleted or made private her accounts after the 2020 events.
