Dalvin Tomlinson’s Family: Wife, Children, Parents and Siblings

Last Updated on November 4, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova

Dalvin Tomlinson is an American professional football player who plays as a defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Chargers in the National Football League (NFL). Born on February 28, 1994, in McDonough, Georgia, Tomlinson has built a successful football career while overcoming significant personal challenges, including losing both parents at a young age.

Tomlinson is married to his longtime partner, Giselle Devot Tomlinson, whom he met during his school years. His parents were Willie Gleaton and Melinda Tomlinson, while his older brother, Labronzo Tomlinson, played an important role in his upbringing. Despite experiencing family tragedies, the NFL star has consistently credited his relatives for helping him pursue his dreams.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Wife: Giselle Devot Tomlinson

Dalvin Tomlinson’s wife is Giselle Devot Tomlinson, his longtime girlfriend and high school sweetheart. Their relationship began as a friendship during their school years in McDonough, Georgia, before developing into a lasting romance.

The couple first met at Henry County Middle School after Giselle moved from New York to Georgia in January 2006. They became close friends, spent time together at school and supported each other’s interests.

On May 10, 2012, Tomlinson asked Giselle to become his girlfriend. Their relationship continued while he attended the University of Alabama, even though the couple had to manage the challenges of living in different locations.

Giselle supported Tomlinson through difficult periods, including the death of his mother and the serious knee injury he suffered during his early football development. Her encouragement helped him remain focused on his education and athletic ambitions.

When Did Dalvin Tomlinson Marry Giselle Devot?

Dalvin Tomlinson and Giselle Devot became engaged on July 16, 2021, during a romantic rooftop proposal in Manhattan, New York City.

After nearly five years of engagement, the couple celebrated their wedding in Lake Como, Italy, in 2026.

Their luxurious destination wedding was documented by Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam in June 2026. The celebration featured an outdoor ceremony overlooking Lake Como, floral decorations, a glass conservatory reception and the presence of family members and close friends.

Following their marriage, Giselle adopted the name Giselle Devot Tomlinson. The couple’s relationship, which began during their teenage years, has become one of the more enduring personal stories associated with the Chargers defensive lineman.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Children

As of now, there is no publicly verified information confirming that Dalvin Tomlinson and his wife, Giselle Devot Tomlinson, have children.

In their June 2026 wedding feature published by Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, the couple discussed their excitement about their future together, including traveling, experiencing different cultures and eventually starting a family.

However, neither a child’s birth nor parenthood has been confirmed through reliable public reporting. Consequently, there is no verified information about the names, ages or number of children they might have.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Parents

Dalvin Tomlinson was born to Willie Gleaton and Melinda Tomlinson. Both parents died before he completed high school, leaving him to navigate adolescence with the support of his older brother and extended family.

Despite these losses, Tomlinson has frequently discussed how his parents’ values continue to influence his personal life, professional career and charitable activities.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Father: Willie Gleaton

Dalvin Tomlinson’s father was Willie Gleaton, who died when Dalvin was only five years old.

According to a detailed family profile published by the Minnesota Star Tribune in December 2021, Gleaton suffered from cancer and sickle cell disease.

Although Tomlinson had relatively few years with his father, he discovered another connection to him through art. While growing up, he found letters that his father had written to his mother, with small illustrations drawn on their envelopes.

Tomlinson, who enjoys drawing, later recognized that his artistic interests reflected an ability his father had also possessed.

The loss of his father was one of the earliest challenges he experienced, but his extended family provided additional support and male role models throughout his childhood.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Mother: Melinda Tomlinson

Dalvin Tomlinson’s mother was Melinda Tomlinson, who played an especially important role in his childhood and athletic development.

Melinda raised her sons while emphasizing education, discipline, kindness and persistence. She encouraged Dalvin to excel academically while pursuing his interests in sports, music, drawing and video games.

She was also actively involved in the local football community, including working at the concession stand during Henry County High School games.

Unfortunately, Melinda died from complications involving heart disease and kidney failure during the summer before Dalvin’s senior year of high school. He was 17 years old.

Her death deeply affected Tomlinson, who considered his mother one of the most important people in his life.

He subsequently continued pursuing his dream of playing professional football, eventually earning a scholarship to the University of Alabama and entering the NFL.

Throughout his professional career, Tomlinson has honored his mother’s memory. During games, he has written tributes to her on his wrist tape, and he has participated in charitable programs supporting children who have experienced the death of a parent or another close relative.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Siblings

Dalvin Tomlinson has an older brother named Labronzo Tomlinson, who was an important influence during his childhood and teenage years.

The brothers grew up in McDonough, Georgia, where they shared interests in sports and other activities. Their relationship became especially significant following the deaths of their parents.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Older Brother: Labronzo Tomlinson

Labronzo Tomlinson is Dalvin Tomlinson’s older brother. According to reporting by the Minnesota Star Tribune, Labronzo is approximately two years older than Dalvin.

As children, the brothers participated in several similar activities, including football, wrestling, track and field, drawing and music.

Dalvin often followed his older brother’s example, and their friendly competition helped him develop an interest in different sports and creative pursuits.

After Melinda Tomlinson died, Labronzo left automotive school in Tennessee and returned to Georgia to support his younger brother and their family.

In a 2017 interview with Bleacher Report, Labronzo described how their extended family helped both brothers after losing their parents.

Labronzo’s decision to return home was an important part of the family support system that enabled Dalvin to continue his education and pursue college football.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Extended Family

Following the death of his mother, Dalvin Tomlinson received significant support from relatives in McDonough, Georgia.

His aunt, Mary Tomlinson, became his legal guardian, while other aunts, uncles and cousins helped provide guidance and emotional support.

Tomlinson’s family has longstanding connections to the McDonough community, and he has spoken proudly about growing up surrounded by relatives who supported one another.

Mary Tomlinson later died in 2021. Tomlinson subsequently honored her memory alongside his mother’s through tributes displayed during NFL games.

These family relationships helped shape his belief in the importance of supporting people experiencing grief and other difficult circumstances.

How Dalvin Tomlinson’s Family Influenced His NFL Career

Dalvin Tomlinson’s family has been central to his football journey. Losing both parents before finishing high school presented challenges that could have disrupted his education and sporting ambitions.

However, the encouragement of his brother, extended family and longtime partner helped him continue pursuing his goals.

Tomlinson attended the University of Alabama, where he developed into a highly regarded defensive lineman. The New York Giants selected him in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft with the 55th overall pick.

He subsequently played for the Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals before joining the Los Angeles Chargers in 2026.

Beyond football, his personal experiences inspired his involvement with organizations such as Kate’s Club in Georgia, Good Grief in New Jersey and Brighter Days Family Grief Center in Minnesota.

These organizations support children and families experiencing bereavement, a cause that carries particular meaning for Tomlinson because of his own childhood experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dalvin Tomlinson’s Family

Who is Dalvin Tomlinson’s wife?

Dalvin Tomlinson is married to Giselle Devot Tomlinson, his longtime partner and high school sweetheart.

When did Dalvin Tomlinson get married?

Dalvin Tomlinson and Giselle Devot celebrated their wedding in Lake Como, Italy, in 2026, following their engagement in July 2021.

Does Dalvin Tomlinson have children?

As of now, there is no publicly verified confirmation that Dalvin Tomlinson has children.

Who are Dalvin Tomlinson’s parents?

His parents were Willie Gleaton and Melinda Tomlinson. His father died when Dalvin was five, while his mother died before his senior year of high school.

What happened to Dalvin Tomlinson’s mother?

Melinda Tomlinson died from complications involving heart disease and kidney failure when Dalvin was 17 years old.

Does Dalvin Tomlinson have siblings?

Yes. Dalvin Tomlinson has an older brother named Labronzo Tomlinson, who helped support him after their mother’s death.

Who raised Dalvin Tomlinson after his parents died?

After his parents died, Tomlinson received support from his older brother and extended family. His aunt, Mary Tomlinson, became his legal guardian.

Where is Dalvin Tomlinson’s family from?

Dalvin Tomlinson grew up in McDonough, Georgia, where his extended family has maintained longstanding ties to the local community.