People privy to Bill Walton’s personal affairs might recall the name Susan Guth, or simply Susie, as his first wife.
Honestly, stopping there would be selling her short. Because I think the best part of her story was after her high-profile marriage ended.
Let’s take a look at the life Susan Guth has built for herself once the cameras stopped flashing.
Marrying Into the Limelight
Susan Guth married Bill Walton in 1979, during the height of his basketball career. They met in college, and by her own telling, it wasn’t exactly love at first sight.
Image source: Google
“I thought he was a geek, but he had a great heart,” she said in a New York Times interview. Their early days captured a magical time in both their lives. She was carefree, happily joining him at parties and events.
In 1977, Susie was all smiles, alongside Bill, during the Trail Blazers’ championship parade. Bill, the Finals MVP, had just led Portland to their first-ever title in their first-ever playoffs! Those moments seemed like the start of forever.
Bill and Susie’s union was blessed with four sons: Adam, Nathan, Luke, and Chris. The Waltons lived much of their lives in the public eye, especially as their son Luke followed his father into the NBA and later into coaching.
Image source: Google
Unfortunately, the college sweethearts divorced after just 10 years of marriage, deeply affecting their children for years.
Building a Career Post-Divorce
After the divorce, Susie could’ve faded quietly from view—and to some extent, she did. But it’s not because she gave up.
Susan simply channeled her energy into something quite meaningful: a career helping other families.
She dove into parenting education. Over the past 19+ years, she’s made a name for herself in Southern California as a parenting coach and communication expert.
Through classes, workshops, and one-on-one sessions, she’s helped countless parents feel more confident and connected to their kids.
She also founded Indigo Village, a community-focused center offering support for families. She was named “San Diego Parent Educator of the Year,” a recognition that reflects just how seriously she takes her work.
Her approach is clear-eyed and real. For instance, as a mom of four boys who were all into sports, she says, “If you get so involved in your kids’ sports, they won’t know if they’re playing for you or for themselves.”
I guess what she’s trying to say is to know when to step back so children can find their own way— something she’s learned firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Did Susan Guth and Bill Walton Divorce?
They divorced in 1989 after ten years of marriage.
What Does Susan Guth Do Now?
She runs Indigo Village in Del Mar, CA, where she teaches personal development and parenting classes.
Where Is Bill Walton Now?
Sadly, the NBA Hall of Famer died on May 27, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. He was 71.
Did Bill Walton Remarry After His Divorce From Susan Guth?
Image source: Google
Yes! Bill married Lori Matsuoka in 1991, and they remained together until his passing. They were married for 33 years!
Wrapping Up
For Susan Guth, what seemed like a major loss—her divorce from Bill—was actually the catalyst for an incredible journey of self-discovery.
For the countless families she’s touched, her heartbreak has been more than worth it.
So, may you be reminded that our greatest chapters often begin after what feels like an ending. Remember, it’s never too late to reinvent yourself!
Featured image source: Marriedbiography
