Juanita Vanoy is known as the first wife of basketball legend Michael Jordan. She is more than just a famous ex-wife. Juanita has lived a full life with her own career, family, and quiet strength. This article shares interesting facts about her early years, marriage, and post-divorce life.
Quick Facts About Juanita Vanoy
| Full Name | Juanita Vanoy |
| Birthdate | June 13, 1959 |
| Age | 66 years old |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Biracial |
| Occupation | Former model, executive secretary, entrepreneur |
| Education | Attended Catholic schools in Chicago |
| Husband/Wife | Michael Jordan (m. 1989 – div. 2006) |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Jasmine M. Jordan, Marcus Jordan, Jeffrey Michael Jordan |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $200 million |
Early Life and Background
Juanita was born on June 13, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois. She was raised on the South Side of the city. Juanita is American and is biracial.
Juanita had previously worked as a model. She also worked as an executive secretary. She worked for the American Bar Association at one time. She was very industrious and kept her eye on the prize.
Meeting Michael Jordan
Juanita met Michael Jordan in 1985. They were introduced by mutual friends following a Chicago Bulls game. Their initial meeting was at a restaurant called Bennigan’s in Chicago. Michael was starting his NBA career at the time.
They started dating shortly after. Michael proposed on New Year’s Eve in 1987. He proposed to her at a downtown Chicago restaurant. They were married in September 1989 at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas.
Family Life
Juanita had their first son, Jeffrey, in 1988 before their wedding. Michael at first was not sure that he was the father, but he eventually owned up.
Juanita and Michael had three children together:
- Jeffrey Michael Jordan (1988)
- Marcus Jordan (1990)
- Jasmine M. Jordan (1992)
All three children have been involved in sports and business. Jeffrey and Marcus played basketball at college level. Marcus then went on to open a sneaker shop named Trophy Room. Jasmine works for the Jordan Brand.
Marriage and Divorce
Juanita and Michael were married for 17 years. They had their share of ups and downs. Juanita sought divorce in 2002, but they reconciled for a while. The final divorce took place in 2006.
Their divorce cost a record high. Juanita got a $168 million settlement. Despite the public attention, she remained calm and reserved. She prioritized her children and maintained a low profile about her private life.
Life After Divorce
Juanita never married again after divorcing. She remained in Chicago and brought up her children. She began starting her own ventures over the years as well.
She also opened a high-end clothing store named Juanita World. It retails designer apparel and accessories. Juanita also assisted in the production of the Broadway play “Some Like It Hot.”
Although she is not frequently featured in the news, Juanita is still involved in business and arts.
READ ALSO: Michael Jordan Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Helping Others
While married to Michael, the two began the Michael and Juanita Jordan Endowment Fund. The fund provided funds to organizations that assisted children, education initiatives, and health programs. After their divorce, Juanita continued to be interested in philanthropy.
Media and Privacy
Juanita remains largely in the background. She did not appear in the 2020 ESPN documentary “The Last Dance.” The movie documented Michael Jordan’s life and career, but Juanita’s story was not told. A lot of people picked up on this, as she played a large role in his life for many years.
