Leslie Knipfing is the younger sister of famous actors Kevin James and Gary Valentine. Unlike her brothers, Leslie has chosen to live a private life, away from the glare of the public eye. She is known for her dedication to family and charitable work, showing that influence and impact do not always require fame. Her story is a remarkable example of resilience, humility, and purpose-driven living.
Born on November 17, 1974, in Mineola, New York, Leslie grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work, support, and compassion. From a young age, she learned the importance of family and community, lessons that have guided her throughout her life. Leslie’s life demonstrates that personal strength and kindness can create a meaningful impact without being in the spotlight.
Early Life and Family
Leslie Knipfing was born on November 17, 1974, in Mineola, New York. She grew up in a loving household with her parents, Joseph Valentine Knipfing Jr., who owned an insurance agency, and Janet Knipfing, who worked in a chiropractor’s office. Leslie grew up alongside her brothers, Kevin James and Gary Valentine, in a home that valued strong family bonds and close connections.
From a young age, Leslie learned the importance of compassion and hard work from her parents. Her upbringing encouraged her to focus on family, personal integrity, and contributing positively to the community. These values have remained central in her life and have influenced her charitable work as an adult.
Education and Personal Development
Leslie attended Ward Melville High School, where she excelled in her studies and built lasting friendships. While she kept her higher education private, it is clear that her schooling gave her the foundation to pursue meaningful work and personal development. Education played an important role in shaping her values and sense of responsibility.
She developed a strong sense of empathy during her teenage years. Leslie often helped her family with charitable initiatives and learned early the importance of supporting those in need. This commitment would later define much of her adult life and her contributions to various causes.
Bio Tab of Leslie Knipfing
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Leslie Knipfing |
Date of Birth | November 17, 1974 |
Age | 49 years (as of 2024) |
Place of Birth | Mineola, New York, USA |
Nationality | American |
Siblings | Kevin James, Gary Valentine |
Height | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) |
Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
Hair Color | Blonde |
Eye Color | Light Brown |
Health Condition | Retinitis Pigmentosa |
Occupation | Philanthropist, Charity Organizer |
Net Worth | $500,000 – $1.5 million |
Social Media | Private / Not Active |
Notable Work | Charity work with Kevin James Foundation and Retinitis Pigmentosa Awareness |
Known For | Private lifestyle, philanthropy, supporting family and health causes |
Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa
Leslie Knipfing lives with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic condition that gradually affects eyesight. Despite this challenge, she has not let it slow her down. Instead, she uses her experiences to support others facing similar difficulties and to raise awareness for vision-related conditions.
Her resilience in dealing with this condition has made her an inspiration for many. Leslie demonstrates that challenges do not define a person; how they respond and continue to contribute matters more. Her life is a testament to courage and determination.
Career and Philanthropy
Leslie did not pursue a career in the entertainment industry like her brothers. Instead, she has focused on philanthropy and charity work. She is deeply involved in initiatives supporting people with disabilities, health challenges, and vision impairments. Her dedication has helped raise funds and awareness for organizations that make a real difference.
Leslie also actively supports her brother Kevin James’ foundation and other family-led charitable efforts. She takes on key responsibilities in organizing events, managing projects, and ensuring that the foundations’ goals are met effectively. Her contributions often happen behind the scenes, but their impact is significant.
Physical Appearance and Personal Traits
Leslie stands at around 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) and has a balanced and healthy physique. She has blonde hair and light brown eyes, which complement her warm personality. Her physical appearance reflects confidence and grace, and her demeanor is calm and approachable.
Beyond her looks, Leslie’s strongest trait is her character. She is compassionate, responsible, and deeply committed to helping others. Her life shows that strength and beauty are often defined by the heart, not just outward appearances.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Leslie Knipfing has an estimated net worth of $500,000 to $1.5 million, which primarily comes from her family support and involvement in charitable projects. She leads a modest lifestyle, choosing meaningful work and personal fulfillment over material excess.
Her financial independence reflects her dedication to her values. Leslie’s wealth is not a measure of fame but a tool she uses to support others and continue her philanthropic initiatives. Her lifestyle highlights simplicity, purpose, and generosity.

Personal Life and Privacy
Leslie Knipfing prefers to remain private and avoids social media and public appearances. She focuses on her family, personal growth, and charitable work rather than seeking attention. This allows her to dedicate time to meaningful causes without distraction.
Her private life does not prevent her from making a difference. Leslie’s actions have a significant impact on those around her, showing that one can contribute meaningfully without being in the spotlight. Her life is proof that privacy and purpose can go hand in hand.
Legacy and Impact
Leslie Knipfing’s life is an example of quiet influence and meaningful contribution. She may not be a household name like her brothers, but her dedication to family, charity, and community leaves a lasting impression.
Her work, especially in supporting people with disabilities and health challenges, has positively affected countless lives. Leslie’s story reminds us that true success is measured by kindness, dedication, and the lives we touch rather than fame or recognition.
Conclusion
Leslie Knipfing shows us that you do not need to be famous to make a difference. She lives a life full of love, kindness, and helping others. Even with challenges like retinitis pigmentosa, she keeps working for good causes and stays close to her family.
Her life teaches a simple but important lesson: helping others and being kind is more important than being in the spotlight. Leslie Knipfing is proof that quiet strength can make the world better.
FAQs
Q: Who is Leslie Knipfing?
A: Leslie Knipfing is the sister of actors Kevin James and Gary Valentine, known for her philanthropic work and private lifestyle.
Q: How old is Leslie Knipfing?
A: She was born on November 17, 1974, which makes her 50 years old in 2025.
Q: What is Leslie Knipfing’s net worth?
A: Her estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $1.5 million.
Q: Does Leslie Knipfing appear in movies or TV?
A: No, Leslie has not pursued a career in entertainment and focuses on charity work and family.
Q: What health condition does Leslie Knipfing have?
A: She lives with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic eye condition affecting vision.