Janet Condra is often recognized as the first wife of NBA legend Larry Bird, but her story is far more than a footnote to a sports career. Her journey reflects resilience, independence, and dedication to family, showing how someone connected to fame can still live a quiet, meaningful life. From high school sweethearts to raising a daughter on her own, Janet’s life offers lessons in strength and discretion that resonate beyond celebrity culture.
Quick Bio
Full Name: Janet Condra
Birth Year: 1950s (exact year private)
Birthplace: French Lick, Indiana, USA
Education: Springs Valley High School
First Marriage: Larry Bird (1975–1976)
Children: Corrie Bird (born 1977)
Career: Mail carrier (Indiana)
Second Marriage: Mike Deakins (private)
Current Residence: Likely Indiana, USA
Social Media: None (prefers privacy)
Early Life and Background
Born in a small, close-knit town in French Lick, Indiana, Janet Condra grew up in a community where neighbors felt like extended family. Her childhood was grounded, filled with everyday experiences that shaped her warm, caring personality.
At Springs Valley High School, Janet was well-liked, participating in school activities and building friendships that would last a lifetime. Her early life instilled a sense of community, responsibility, and resilience—qualities that would later help her navigate the challenges of marriage, motherhood, and public curiosity.
Current Age and Physical Appearance
Janet Condra was born in the 1950s, making her likely in her early to mid-70s in 2025. While she has kept a low profile, older photos show her with blonde hair and dark brown eyes, reflecting the natural, understated style she has maintained throughout her life. Her appearance mirrors her approach to life—simple, authentic, and grounded.
Janet Condra and Larry Bird: High School Sweethearts
Janet and Larry Bird first met as teenagers at Springs Valley High School. Larry, already passionate about basketball, spent hours practicing and dreaming of a professional career. Janet supported him quietly but steadfastly, offering encouragement and companionship through the ups and downs of youth.
Their bond blossomed in a small-town environment where everyone knew each other, creating a nurturing backdrop for young love. This connection eventually led to marriage, though their journey together would be short-lived.
Who Is Larry Bird?
For context, Larry Bird is an American basketball icon, born in 1956 in Indiana. Known for his incredible skill, strategic play, and leadership, Bird spent his entire professional career with the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships and earning three MVP awards. Beyond his playing career, he worked as a coach and team executive, cementing his legacy in basketball history.
Janet Condra and Larry Bird’s Marriage
Janet and Larry tied the knot in 1975, after dating through high school. Their wedding was a modest affair, reflective of their youth and small-town roots. However, Larry’s rapidly advancing basketball career created strains on their marriage.
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Challenges: Larry’s demanding schedule left little room for the couple to nurture their relationship.
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Divorce: Less than a year later, the marriage ended in 1976.
The split was undoubtedly difficult for Janet, emotionally and practically, as she navigated life changes and the uncertainty of raising a child.
Life After Divorce: Single Motherhood
Following the divorce, Janet gave birth to their daughter, Corrie Bird, in 1977. Initially, Larry questioned paternity, but a test confirmed he was Corrie’s father.
Raising Corrie as a single mother, Janet balanced work, family, and public curiosity with grace. Despite financial and emotional challenges, she prioritized stability, providing her daughter with a loving environment far from the limelight.
Janet Condra’s Career and Personal Independence
To support herself and Corrie, Janet worked as a mail carrier in Indiana. It was a steady, reliable job that allowed her to maintain independence while staying connected to her community.
Her career wasn’t glamorous, but it provided stability and purpose. Janet’s choice to live quietly and work diligently reflected her values—self-reliance, family focus, and privacy.
Larry Bird’s Relationship with Corrie Bird
Larry Bird’s involvement in Corrie’s early life was limited due to his basketball career. While he contributed financially, including a trust fund and bank account, Janet shouldered most parenting responsibilities.
Over time, Larry made some efforts to reconnect with Corrie, but the early years shaped their relationship dynamic. Janet remained the consistent presence in Corrie’s life, providing guidance and care.
Janet Condra’s Second Marriage and Family Life
Later in life, Janet married Mike Deakins. Like her first marriage, she kept this relationship private, choosing to protect her family from media attention. Together, they had a daughter named Mandy.
Her second marriage underscores her commitment to family privacy and living away from public scrutiny—a consistent theme throughout her life.
Larry Bird’s Life After Divorce from Janet Condra
After his divorce from Janet, Larry married Dinah Mattingly in 1989, and they adopted two children, Connor and Mariah. Bird has occasionally acknowledged Corrie and the estranged relationship, emphasizing that his private life isn’t for public discussion.
As of 2025, Larry remains a consultant for the Indiana Pacers, maintaining a low profile outside basketball circles.
Janet Condra’s Current Life and Legacy
Today, Janet likely resides in Indiana, leading a private, peaceful life. She avoids social media and public appearances, focusing on her family and personal well-being.
Her legacy is one of quiet strength, resilience, and commitment. Janet shows that it’s possible to live meaningfully without chasing fame, highlighting the value of family, personal choice, and privacy.
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Net Worth and Financial Status
Janet Condra’s estimated net worth is around $500,000. This comes from her work, personal investments, and careful management of resources. While her marriage to Larry Bird linked her to immense wealth, she has maintained a life independent of celebrity status.
Larry Bird’s net worth, by comparison, is approximately $75 million, highlighting the stark difference between public fame and private resilience.
Key Takeaways
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Janet Condra is best known as Larry Bird’s first wife, but her life is defined by more than a connection to fame.
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She raised her daughter Corrie largely on her own, demonstrating determination and strength.
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Janet pursued a steady career as a mail carrier, valuing independence and stability.
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She remarried later in life, maintaining a private family life away from media attention.
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Her story illustrates the power of quiet resilience, personal choice, and protecting family privacy.
FAQs About Janet Condra
1. Who is Janet Condra?
She is the first wife of NBA legend Larry Bird and the mother of their daughter, Corrie Bird.
2. When did Janet Condra and Larry Bird get married and divorced?
They married in 1975 and divorced in 1976.
3. Does Janet Condra have children with Larry Bird?
Yes, they have a daughter named Corrie, born in 1977.
4. What did Janet Condra do after divorcing Larry Bird?
She worked as a mail carrier in Indiana and later remarried, keeping her personal life private.
5. Is Janet Condra still in contact with Larry Bird?
Their relationship remains limited, though Larry has made some efforts to reconnect with Corrie.
6. Where does Janet Condra live now, and what is her lifestyle?
She likely resides in Indiana, leading a quiet, private life focused on family.
Conclusion
Janet Condra’s story shows that true strength and resilience often happen behind the scenes. While her marriage to Larry Bird was brief, her life as a single mother, community member, and private individual reflects courage and independence. She teaches that a meaningful life doesn’t require fame—what matters is family, personal values, and the ability to navigate life with dignity.
