Janet Condra: The Story Behind Larry Bird’s First Wife

Janet Condra was a high school sweetheart and first wife to Larry Bird. They got married in 1975 but divorced a year later. They have a daughter named Corrie born in 1977.

Following her marriage to Larry, Janet took a different path. She later worked as a mail carrier and married another man named Mike Deakins. Though it may not be as popular as Larry Bird’s story, it’s significant in his life history.

Although Janet’s marriage to Larry did not last long, their daughter Corrie had her problems while she was growing up. Later on, Corrie reached out to her famous father, adding a new chapter to this family story.

Quick Bio

Who is Janet Condra?

Janet Condra is known worldwide as the first wife of the NBA legend Larry Bird. She was born in Indiana and is currently in her early 60s. She met Larry during their teen years while they were both studying at Springs Valley High. Janet and Larry had married in November 1975.

Their marriage did not last long and their marriage officially ended in 1976. Within a year, Corrie, their daughter was born in August 1977.

She led a low-key life ever since her divorce. Janet despised being in the spotlight and liked to keep her life shielded from the limelight. She has never created any social media account, nor does she attend public gatherings; this in itself speaks volumes about keeping herself aloof from fame.

Irrespective of the fact that the two are no longer together, Janet will always be attached to basketball history. Her story depicts how life can present circumstances nobody predicts, even for people attached to sports celebrities.

Early Life

Janet was born in the 1950s in Indiana and grew up in French Lick, a small close-knit community town. She attended local schools and eventually enrolled at Springs Valley High School. This would become an important school in her life.

During high school, Janet was active in school events and joined the cheerleading squad. This is where she met Larry Bird, an NBA legend.

Janet and Larry attended the same class, went to school functions together, and soon were known to each other’s families. The two, therefore, became closer in high school and after school, Janet married Larry Bird in 1975. Even though their marriage did not last for too long, they had a daughter named Corrie in 1977.

Early Life and Career

Janet’s career was quite far from her famous ex-husband. While Larry was making a name in the NBA, Janet chose a rather simpler route. She worked as a mail carrier around her hometown in Indiana.

This job allowed her to stay connected with her community. She loved talking to neighbors and helping people get their mail. Her work wasn’t glamorous, but she took pride in it.

Being a carrier made Janet organized, timely, and affable. These traits helped her in all her life’s aspects.

Though the job didn’t bring Janet either fame or great wealth, it was important somehow. She enjoyed communicating with people and simple work’s charm.

Who is Janet Condra’s Ex-husband?

The ex-husband of Janet is no other than Larry Bird. His name is well-renowned in the basketball world. He used to play for Boston Celtics and is regarded as one of the best NBA players. Therefore, he is known by the name “Larry Legend.”

Larry and Janet married in 1975 but separated after a year. They had a daughter, Corrie, together. After the divorce, though, Janet and Larry didn’t stay close.

Larry later married Dinah Mattingly in 1989. They remain married to date and have two adopted children. While Larry went ahead with his legendary basketball career, Janet remained out of the public eye, choosing to live her life in private.

Social Media

Janet Condra isn’t on social media. Unlike most people who have some connection to a famous athlete, she doesn’t have public accounts on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. This is per her need to keep her life private after her brief marriage with Larry Bird.

No social media accounts for Janet prove that not everyone associated with a celebrity seeks attention. If any of her updates are to be followed, then there isn’t a way for those curious about her life.

In fact, her approach tells us something: even in an age when so many people make their lives open books online, there is such a thing as privacy worth preserving.

Future Plans and Vision

She is excited about future opportunities. Janet wants to be able to give back to her community, perhaps by starting a mentorship for young women.

She would like to include education support, furthering mental health awareness, and cultural exploration through travel in her vision for a foundation.

Janet is excited for what’s to come. She’s ready to make the most of her days, create meaningful connections, and leave a positive legacy.