Elvira Alethia Children: Meet The Famous Wayans Family Matriarch & Her Legacy

Elvira Alethia was not just a homemaker. She was the heart of the Wayans family. She helped shape one of the most influential families in American entertainment. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about Elvira Alethia’s children, to whom she married, her role as a mother, and how her legacy continues through the next Wayans generations. Keep reading to discover how her family changed comedy forever.

Early Life & Background 

Elvira Alethia Green was born on 9 July 1938 in New York City, United States. Her parents were Ivory Garret Green (father) and Elvira Green (mother). 

She spent most of her early years in New York and lived a private life. Elvira worked as a homemaker and social worker. 

Marriage & Family Life

They were married for more than six decades until her death in July 2020. Howell followed her in April 2023. They had ten children together in Chelsea, New York City.

So, how many kids does Elvira have?  

Elvira and Howell Wayans had ten children who went on to become entertainers or artists.

The Wayans family, which includes their oldest to youngest members, is as follows: Dwayne, Keenen Ivory, Diedra, Damon Sr., Kim, Elvira, Nadia, Devonne, Shawn, and Marlon.

All the children thrived in their respective fields, starting with writing and acting and progressing on to producing and directing.

The Wayans family tree has, nowadays, grandchildren Damon Wayans Jr., Chaunté Wayans, and Damien Dante Wayans who carry on the family tradition of creativity.

Meet Elvira Alethia’s Children

Let’s take a closer look at Elvira Alethia’s children, the stars she raised with love and discipline.

• Dwayne Howell Wayans (born 1957): Writer and film-score composer known for ‘Major Payne’ and ‘In Living Color’.

• Keenen Ivory Wayans (born 1958): Actor, comedian, and director who created ‘In Living Color’ and directed ‘White Chicks’. Keenen Ivory Wayans’ net worth is $65 million and he is one of the wealthiest in the family.

• Diedra Wayans (born 1959): Screenwriter and producer recognized for ‘A Polished Soul’ and ‘Roxi Blews’.

• Damon Wayans Sr. (born 1960): A legendary comedian, actor, and writer, famous for ‘My Wife and Kids’ and ‘Major Payne’.

Fans often ask, What was Damon Wayans diagnosed with? He has spoken publicly about living with Type 2 diabetes.

• Kim Wayans (born 1961): Actress, writer, and director known for ‘In Living Color’ and ‘Pariah’ (2011).

• Elvira Wayans (born 1964): Screenwriter and producer.

• Nadia Wayans (born 1965): Former actress, seen in ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’.

• Devonne “Vonnie” Wayans (born 1966): Works in the hospitality industry.

• Shawn Wayans (born 1971): Actor and comedian known for ‘The Wayans Bros’ and ‘Scary Movie’.

• Marlon Wayans (born 1972): Actor, writer, and comedian known for ‘White Chicks’ and ‘Requiem for a Dream’.

Who is the oldest Wayans?

That title goes to the eldest son Dwayne Wayans. 

What Is Wayans Family Legacy?

The ‘Wayans family’ is one of the successful African-American families in Hollywood. The biggest question is, How much is the Wayans family worth? 

The family is estimated to have a total net worth of over 300 million. 

The question that fans probably ask the most is: Which one of the Wayans family passed away? 

Elvira Alethia passed on 10 July 2020, at the age of 81. Howell Wayans died in April 2023 and left a strong legacy behind. 

In 2025, the Wayans family was invited to the ‘NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame,’ which is indeed a testament to their contributions to the world of comedy and culture. 

Elvira Alethia’s Influence & Legacy

Elvira Alethia was not just a mother but a teacher and guide. Her children attribute to her the teachings of discipline and faith.

Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Damien Dante Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr.

When the fans question, What happened to Marlon Wayans’ mother? Marlon frequently mentions how much she influenced his life and tells emotional eulogies. 

Conclusion

Elvira Alethia Wayans might have led a personal life, yet her presence pervades all. She has contributed to the future of American comedy through her ten remarkable children. Her legacy is still a source of inspiration to new generations through White Chicks and In Living Color. Her experience is a reminder to us that behind a good family, there is a great and loving mother. The children of Elvira Alethia are evidence of her eternal influence.