Marguerite Whitley may not be a household name in the mainstream media today, but her life has been anything but ordinary. Known widely as the first wife of NFL legend O.J. Simpson, Marguerite’s story encompasses fame, tragedy, love, loss, and an eventual retreat from the public spotlight. Her life has often been overshadowed by the high-profile controversies of her ex-husband, yet her story is deeply rooted in the rise and fall of one of America’s most talked-about sports and media personalities.
In this article, we dive deep into the life of Marguerite Whitley — her early days, her relationship with O.J. Simpson, the tragic death of their daughter Aaren Lashone Simpson, her life after divorce, and where she is now. We also explore frequently searched queries like “Is Marguerite Whitley still alive?”, “Marguerite Whitley wiki”, “Marguerite Whitley net worth”, “Marguerite Whitley birthday”, and more.
Early Life and Background
Marguerite L. Whitley was born on March 20, 1949, in Los Angeles, California. Raised in a middle-class African-American family, Marguerite lived a relatively quiet life before meeting O.J. Simpson. She attended University High School, where she was known for her elegance, intelligence, and charm.
She eventually enrolled in the University of Southern California (USC), where fate brought her into the orbit of the soon-to-be superstar football player, Orenthal James “O.J.” Simpson. It is said that Marguerite was dating one of O.J.’s friends when she first met him, but sparks flew quickly between the two.
Marriage to O.J. Simpson
Marguerite and O.J. Simpson got married on June 24, 1967, when Marguerite was just 18 years old and Simpson was beginning to rise to national fame. The couple quickly settled into their life together, and Marguerite largely took on the traditional role of homemaker as Simpson’s professional football career took off.
Their union produced three children:
- Arnelle Simpson – Born in December 1968, she has remained one of the most visible members of the Simpson family.
- Jason Simpson – Born in April 1970, Jason has largely remained private, although he was briefly discussed in media during O.J.’s 1995 trial.
- Aaren Lashone Simpson – Born in September 24, 1977, tragically passed away in August 1979 due to an accidental drowning.
The Simpson household, from the outside, appeared glamorous and stable. However, cracks began to form behind the scenes as Simpson’s fame grew, and Marguerite began to feel increasingly alienated.
The Tragic Loss of Aaren Lashone Simpson
Perhaps the most devastating chapter in Marguerite Whitley’s life came in August 1979, shortly after she and Simpson had separated. Their youngest child, Aaren, accidentally fell into the family’s swimming pool. Although she was discovered and rushed to the hospital, she remained in a coma for several days before passing away on August 26, 1979, just shy of her second birthday.
The tragedy left an indelible scar on Marguerite, who was already going through emotional distress from her failing marriage. It is widely believed that the strain of the tragedy added further complications to their already rocky relationship.
Aaren was later buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California. Even today, her short life and untimely passing continue to be a deeply emotional subject within the Simpson family narrative.
Divorce and Life After O.J. Simpson
Marguerite Whitley and O.J. Simpson divorced in March 1979, several months before their daughter’s death. The reasons cited included irreconcilable differences, but close friends and insiders suggested that Simpson’s fame, lifestyle, and infidelity were major factors.
After the divorce, Marguerite chose to remain largely outside the spotlight. She remarried twice — first to Rudolph Lewis, a transit supervisor, in 1986. That marriage also ended in divorce. She later married Anthony Thomas, a furniture sales representative, in 1992.
Though she was once supportive of O.J. Simpson even during his 1995 murder trial, where she reportedly testified on his behalf stating he was never violent toward her, she has since distanced herself from the media circus that surrounds him. Unlike Nicole Brown Simpson, O.J.’s second wife who became the center of a national tragedy, Marguerite managed to live away from the storm — quietly and resolutely.
Where is Marguerite Whitley Now?
Many people wonder: Is Marguerite Whitley still alive?
The answer is yes. As of the most recent reports in 2024 and 2025, Marguerite Whitley is still living and is believed to be in her mid-70s. She resides in California, although the exact location remains private.
She is said to be close to her children, especially Arnelle, who has been more visible in defending her father publicly. Whitley remains notably absent from public events and interviews. She has also avoided social media, preferring a peaceful, private life.
Net Worth and Professional Life
While Marguerite never pursued celebrity status or a public career, she reportedly took over a family-run interior design and retail business. Some reports suggest she has a net worth estimated between $250,000 to $500,000, though these numbers are unconfirmed due to her private lifestyle.
Her financial status is modest compared to the wealth amassed by her ex-husband during his NFL and acting careers. However, her choice to avoid the limelight and maintain her dignity in the face of overwhelming public scrutiny is considered admirable by many.
Marguerite Whitley in Public Memory
Although Marguerite Whitley is not frequently discussed in today’s tabloids or documentaries, she remains an essential figure in understanding the full story of O.J. Simpson. She was there from the beginning — before the Heisman Trophy, the NFL fame, the commercials, the acting career, the scandals, and the trials.
Whitley’s story is a quiet but powerful testament to the strength of women who endure emotional hardship, public scrutiny, and private tragedy — all while choosing silence over spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Marguerite Whitley still alive?
A: Yes, she is alive and reportedly living a private life in California.
Q: How old is Marguerite Whitley?
A: Born on March 20, 1949, she is currently 76 years old (as of 2025).
Q: What happened to her daughter Aaren Simpson?
A: Aaren died in August 1979 after accidentally drowning in a swimming pool.
Q: What is Marguerite Whitley’s net worth?
A: Estimated between $250,000 to $500,000, though unverified due to her private life.
Q: Does she still have a relationship with O.J. Simpson?
A: While she supported him during his early trials, she has kept a distance in recent decades.
Conclusion
Marguerite Whitley’s life is one marked by deep personal experiences, family devotion, and a quiet kind of resilience. From being a high-school sweetheart to becoming the wife of a national sports icon, to surviving the heartbreak of losing a child and a marriage — she has seen and endured a great deal. Yet, her decision to live away from the limelight while retaining grace and privacy speaks volumes.
Her story deserves more recognition, not as a footnote to O.J. Simpson’s legacy, but as a testament to a woman who weathered a storm with poise and dignity.
This article was researched and written for Infory, your trusted blog for real-life biographies and untold personal stories.