What’s it really like being married to baseball’s most controversial legend? Carol J. Woliung lived that reality for nearly three decades.
While many recognize her as Pete Rose’s second wife, Carol J. Woliung also had her own career and personal life before and after their marriage. She went from cheering on NFL sidelines to navigating one of sports’ most turbulent marriages.
Carol J. Woliung’s life shows how she managed family responsibilities and personal challenges during Pete Rose’s public controversies and long separation process.
Carol J. Woliung Quick Facts
| Personal Detail | Information |
| Birth Year | 1954 |
| Current Age | 70 years old |
| Former Career | Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, Playboy model |
| Marriage Duration | 27 years (1984-2011 separation) |
| Children | Tyler Rose, Cara Rose |
| Current Status | Pete Rose’s widow (legally) |
| Residence | California |
Early Life and Background
Carol J. Woliung was born in 1954 and found her way into professional sports entertainment as a young woman. She became a Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, a position that brought her early experience with public attention and performance
Her athletic background shaped her understanding of competitive pressure and public attention. Little did she know these skills would prove essential in her future marriage.
Before meeting Pete, Carol also worked as a model for Playboy, giving her experience with media attention that most people never face.
The Pete Rose Romance Begins
Their love story started when Carol was just 18 years old. Pete Rose was still married to his first wife when he began pursuing the young cheerleader.
In his 2004 autobiography “My Prison Without Bars”, Pete later described Carol as very attractive and full of energy, which first caught his attention. Pete Rose later mentioned in his autobiography that he was drawn to Carol’s energy and personality during their early connection.
Their relationship blossomed despite the complicated circumstances, with Carol drawn to the intensity and passion that made “Charlie Hustle” famous on the baseball diamond.
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Carol J. Woliung Marriage and Building a Family
1984 brought two major life changes for Carol. She married the Cincinnati Reds legend and welcomed their first child, Tyler Rose, the same year. She quickly adjusted to the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood at the same time.
Five years later, Cara Rose completed their family in 1989. Pete initially suggested naming their son after baseball player Tyrus Cobb, but the couple chose the name Tyler instead.
Carol also embraced her role as stepmother to Pete’s existing children: Pete Rose Jr. (born 1964), Fawn Rose (born 1969), and Morgan Erin Rubio, whose paternity Pete acknowledged in a 1996 settlement.
Raising Kids in the Spotlight
Raising children while married to one of baseball’s biggest names came with unique challenges. Carol worked hard to give her kids normal lives despite constant media attention.
Cara Rose eventually pursued acting under the professional name Chea Courtney, appearing in popular shows like “Passions” and “Melrose Place”. She even joined her father at entertainment events like the 3rd Annual Super Concert Series at the Grove in 2005.
Tyler Rose chose a completely different path, moving to Las Vegas by 2008 to build a DJ career under the moniker “TRose”. Carol supported both children’s dreams, even when they didn’t involve baseball.
When the Marriage Started Cracking
Being married to Pete Rose meant dealing with his gambling scandal and eventual MLB ban. The pressure of defending a husband accused of betting on games took its toll on their relationship.
Pete’s reputation shifted over the years due to his gambling suspension and public controversies. Carol tried to balance her role as a supportive spouse while also focusing on her children’s well-being.
By 2009, the marriage was clearly in trouble. That’s when Pete began a very public relationship with Playboy model Kiana Kim, who was nearly 40 years younger than him.
The Lengthy divorce proceedings
In March 2011, Pete filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. The separation in 2011 was followed by divorce proceedings that continued for several years.
The proceedings got nasty fast. In 2018, Carol revealed Pete was earning $453,000 annually from autograph signings while she fought for proper spousal support. In court documents, Carol expressed concerns about Pete’s gambling habits.
Pete fought back by claiming poor health, saying he was “currently disabled and can barely walk or travel” due to a heart condition. Pete Rose stated in court filings that health issues limited his ability to work and travel.
Finding Peace After Separation
Following their 2011 separation, Carol made a smart decision. She relocated to California and chose privacy over publicity, focusing on personal well-being instead of media battles.
While Pete continued making headlines with Kiana Kim and ongoing controversies, Carol quietly rebuilt her life. She got involved in philanthropic activities and community service, She continued to focus on her personal well-being and family connections.
Her commitment to family stability meant staying connected with all her children while avoiding the toxic drama surrounding Pete’s public persona.
The Unexpected Widow Status
Pete Rose died on September 30, 2024, at age 83 at his Las Vegas home. An unexpected outcome was that, since the divorce was never finalized, Carol was legally considered his widow.
This legal technicality created an unusual situation where Pete left behind two “widows” – Carol and his first wife Karolyn Englehardt, who is still alive. Even Karolyn had expressed sympathy for Carol during the divorce proceedings.
The unfinished divorce meant Carol had legal standing in Pete’s estate matters, though she had long since moved on emotionally from their relationship.
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Carol J. Woliung Legacy Beyond the Headlines
Carol J. Woliung is recognized for keeping her life private and focusing on her children and personal well-being after years in the public eye. She spent nearly three decades married to one of baseball’s most well-known players and managed her role as a parent and public spouse with steadiness.
Her ability to raise successful children, manage a blended family, and handle decades of media scrutiny speaks to genuine character. She focused on family stability and kept a lower profile despite the challenges of public attention.
After her separation, she chose to live privately in California, spending more time on family and personal life.
Life Today and Looking Forward
Now 70 years old, Carol continues living quietly in California, far from the baseball world that once defined her public identity. Her children have grown into successful adults who credit her stability for their achievements.
Cara Rose (professionally known as Chea Courtney) built her entertainment career, while Tyler Rose pursued his passion for music as a DJ. Both found their own paths without relying on their father’s fame.
Carol’s commitment to staying out of the public eye shows she learned valuable lessons about protecting her personal well-being and maintaining family relationships away from external pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carol J. Woliung doing now?
She lives privately in California, focusing on family relationships and personal interests away from public attention.
How many children did Carol have with Pete Rose?
Two children: Tyler Rose (1984) and Cara Rose (1989), who later acted as Chea Courtney.
Was Carol still married when Pete Rose died?
Technically yes – their divorce proceedings were never completed, making her legally his widow.
What was Carol’s profession before marriage?
She was a Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader and Playboy model before marrying Pete Rose.
Did Carol remarry after separating from Pete?
No public records indicate Carol remarried after their 2011 separation.
How long did their divorce proceedings last?
The divorce was filed in March 2011 and was never legally finalized before Pete’s death in September 2024.
Carol J. Woliung’s journey from Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader to baseball wife to independent woman shows what real strength looks like. She chose family over fame, privacy over publicity, and peace over drama.
Her story reminds us that behind every controversial public figure are real people dealing with real consequences. Carol found a way to protect what mattered most while maintaining her dignity through it all.
Her decision to live a private life after separation shows the importance she placed on stability and self-respect.
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