Janet Condra is best known as the first wife of Larry Bird, who became a famous basketball player and one of the greatest legends in NBA history. She was a young girl from a small town who fell in love before fame or pressure entered their lives, and her journey changed forever when their marriage ended in a short time. Janet faced many real struggles while raising their daughter, and she chose a quiet life far away from news and media attention. Her story shows real strength and love for her family through every stage of her life.
Quick Bio of Janet Condra
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Janet Condra |
| Birth Year | Mid 1950s (exact year not publicly confirmed) |
| Birthplace | French Lick, Indiana, USA |
| Education | Springs Valley High School, French Lick |
| Known For | First wife of Larry Bird, famous basketball player and NBA legend |
| Marriage to Larry Bird | Married in 1975 and divorced in 1976 |
| Children | Daughter: Corrie Bird (born August 14 1977) |
| Other Marital Status | Reported second marriage (widely reported as Mike Deakins) |
| Career / Work | Reportedly worked as a mail carrier in Indiana |
Early Life, Family Background and Education
Janet Condra was born in French Lick, Indiana, in the United States. Her exact birth year has never been publicly confirmed, but she is believed to have been born in the 1950s. She grew up in a small town where people knew each other and lived close to their families. Her childhood was simple and based on values such as kindness, respect and staying close to the community.
She studied at Springs Valley High School, the same school that Larry Bird attended. During her school years, she was known as a friendly girl with a gentle personality and a calm nature. She joined school and community activities, creating strong friendships. These early years shaped her character and helped her learn the importance of honesty and loyalty.
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How Janet Condra Met Larry Bird
Janet Condra met Larry Bird when both were students at Springs Valley High School. They lived in the same small community and spent time together with friends. Their friendship slowly turned into young love. Larry was focused on basketball and practiced often and Janet stayed close to him and gave support. They shared many dreams about their future and believed that their love would last.
Their relationship progressed rapidly because they felt a strong connection and were comfortable with each other. They started dating in high school and continued after graduation. Their young love story became known in the town since everyone around them saw them growing up together. They later decided to get married, believing that their connection was strong enough to face any challenge.
Who is Larry Bird?
Larry Bird is one of the most famous basketball players in American history. He became a star first in college, then in the NBA with the Boston Celtics. He earned three league MVP awards and won several NBA championships with his team. People admired his excellent shooting skill, smart thinking on the court and strong leadership. After his player career ended, he worked as a coach and later as a basketball executive. Larry Bird became a sports icon through hard work and discipline, and his story inspired many young athletes.
Marriage of Janet Condra and Larry Bird (1975–1976)
Janet Condra and Larry Bird got married in November 1975. They were very young at that time and were still learning how to build an adult life. Their wedding was simple and private because they came from small-town families and lived normal lives. At that moment, they believed that love alone would be enough to hold them together.
Their marriage did not last long. Larry was focused on basketball and spent most of his time working on his future career. They soon faced many problems because they were not ready for the responsibilities of marriage. Their relationship started to fall apart and they decided to divorce in 1976, less than one year after their wedding. It was a painful step for both of them and it changed the direction of their lives forever.
Attempted Reconciliation and Birth of Their Daughter, Corrie Bird
After their divorce, they tried to fix their relationship for a short period, but they still could not stay together. During this time, Janet became pregnant. On August 14 1977, she gave birth to their daughter Corrie Bird. This was a life changing moment for Janet because she now had the duty to raise a child while living without Larry Bird as her husband.
Larry did not believe at first that Corrie was his biological daughter, but later accepted the truth after a test. Janet welcomed motherhood with a full heart and she did her best to give Corrie love and stability. Even though the marriage ended, the birth of Corrie kept a permanent connection between Janet and Larry that would last for life.
Life After Divorce
Life after divorce was not easy for Janet Condra. She was young and now had to raise her daughter almost alone. Larry Bird was moving forward in his basketball career and became very busy with games and training. This meant that Janet had to carry most responsibilities connected to raising Corrie.
Janet showed great strength during this time. She chose to focus on her daughter rather than seeking public attention or fame. She created a stable environment for Corrie with love and care. Many people respect her because she stood strong through emotional and financial struggles. Her story proves that some heroes live quiet lives and do their best behind the scenes.
Career, Income Sources and Personal Independence
There is limited public information about her work life, but it is widely reported that Janet Condra worked as a mail carrier in Indiana for a period of time. This job helped her support herself and her daughter. She always wanted to remain independent and did not want to rely on Larry Bird’s fame or money. She preferred to earn her own living through honest work.
Janet chose a simple lifestyle over one filled with cameras and news stories. She believed in privacy and worked hard to provide a normal life for her family. She valued peace and did not try to use Larry Bird’s name for personal gain. Her independence became an important part of her life identity.
Larry Bird’s Relationship With Corrie Bird
The relationship between Larry Bird and his daughter Corrie was complicated. Since he and Janet separated before Corrie was born, he was not active in her early childhood. Larry later said in interviews that he did not know how to handle the situation and felt unsure about building a relationship with her.
Corrie grew up mainly with her mother, who supported her education and dreams. She studied hard and built her own life separate from her father’s fame. Years later, when Larry worked with the Indiana Pacers, Corrie met him again at a basketball game. This brought a moment of hope for better communication between them, but their personal relationship remains private today. Janet stood by Corrie’s side through all emotional stages with patience and love.
Janet Condra’s Second Marriage, Private Family Life and Children
After her first marriage ended, Janet Condra moved forward with her life. It is reported that she later married a man named Mike Deakins. The couple is said to have chosen a private lifestyle away from public interest. Some reports also suggest that she may have had another daughter named Mandy during her second marriage. However, these details are not fully confirmed in public records.
Janet protected her second marriage from media attention because she wanted a peaceful and normal family environment. She focused on building a long-term relationship based on trust and kindness instead of fame and public pressure. This private chapter helped her find stability and emotional peace.
Larry Bird’s Life After Janet Condra (Marriage to Dinah Mattingly)
Larry Bird moved forward with his personal life many years after his short marriage to Janet. He married Dinah Mattingly in 1989. Their wedding was small and simple. Together, they adopted two children named Mariah and Connor. This second marriage lasted for many years and became an important part of his life story.
Larry and Dinah lived a more private and steady life compared to his early years. Larry focused on his basketball career and later worked as a coach and executive. His second marriage helped him grow as a person and learn from his past mistakes.
What is Janet Condra Doing Now?
Today, Janet Condra is believed to still live in Indiana. She does not appear on social media and does not share her personal life online. Janet prefers to live a quiet life with her family. She does not participate in interviews and does not attend public events related to Larry Bird.
Her decision to stay private shows that she prioritizes peace over attention. She wants to live life away from rumors and public comments. Her lifestyle is simple and focused on family and personal happiness.
Janet Condra Age, Physical Appearance and Personality
Based on her life timeline, Janet Condra is likely in her early or mid-70s as of 2025. There are not many recent photos of her because she stays out of the spotlight. In her younger years, she was described as having blonde hair and dark brown eyes. She had a gentle and warm personality and people found her easy to talk to.
Those who knew her say she was kind, caring and very protective of her family. She always tried to solve problems quietly and believed in maintaining a humble approach. Her personality reflects her life choices, which were based on love, responsibility and peace.
Janet Condra Net Worth and Financial Situation
Many online sources estimate that Janet Condra’s net worth may be around $500,000. There is no official proof for this figure, but it is believed that her income came from her work and from personal savings or investments. She did not show interest in public fame or business projects linked to Larry Bird.
Her financial story shows responsibility and independence. She worked hard to support herself and her daughter, rather than relying on someone else. Her life choices were not about wealth but about stability and peace.
Janet Condra vs Dinah Mattingly – Comparison Without Controversy
Janet Condra and Dinah Mattingly are two different women with different life paths connected by one man. Janet was part of Larry’s life when both were young and still growing. Dinah entered his life later when he was more mature and experienced. Their stories are separate and there is no need for comparison in a negative way.
Janet focused on living a private life after her first marriage and raised her daughter with great care. Dinah built a long-term relationship with Larry and became an integral part of his family life for many years. Both women deserve respect because they lived their lives with honesty and strength.
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Conclusion
The life story of Janet Condra shows that some people choose peace instead of fame. She experienced young love, a short marriage, heartbreak and the hard work of raising a child as a single mother. She lived her life with dignity and stayed true to her values. Janet Condra proves that success is not always about public attention. Sometimes it is found in a quiet home, loving relationships and personal strength.
FAQs About Janet Condra
Who is Janet Condra?
Janet Condra is best known as the first wife of Larry Bird, a renowned basketball player and one of the greatest legends in NBA history.
When did Janet Condra and Larry Bird get married?
Janet Condra and Larry Bird got married in 1975 when they were very young, and they divorced in 1976.
Do Janet Condra and Larry Bird have a child together?
Yes, they have one daughter named Corrie Bird who was born on August 14 1977.
Why did Janet Condra and Larry Bird divorce?
Their marriage ended because they were young and faced personal and emotional problems, while Larry focused on his growing basketball career.
What is Janet Condra doing now?
Janet Condra lives a private life away from the public, and she is believed to still live in Indiana.
Did Janet Condra remarry?
It is reported that she later married a man named Mike Deakins and chose a quiet family life.
What is Janet Condra’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is not confirmed, but online reports suggest that she may have earned a modest income from her own work and from savings or investments.
Does Janet Condra use social media or appear in public?
No, she prefers privacy and she does not share her life on social media or appear in public interviews.
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