Wilbur Wood, the legendary knuckleball pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, had a personal life that included two marriages. His first wife was Sandra Malcolm, his high school sweetheart, whom he married on November 6, 1963.
The couple eventually divorced, and in 1991, Wilbur remarried Janet. Janet became his wife for the later decades of his life. They resided in the Boston area, where Wilbur enjoyed post-retirement pursuits like fishing, cooking, and gardening. Janet was by his side during his later years and confirmed his passing on January 17, 2026, at age 84, following his death in a hospital in Burlington, Massachusetts.
All You Need to Know About Janet, Wilbur Wood’s Wife
Janet was Wilbur Wood’s second wife, marrying him in 1991 after his first marriage ended. While public details about her early life, maiden name, or professional background remain limited (as she maintained a private profile outside of her connection to the baseball star), she was a supportive partner throughout their marriage.
Key facts about Janet in relation to Wilbur Wood:
- Marriage and Longevity: Married in 1991, their relationship lasted over 30 years until Wilbur’s death in 2026.
- Residence: The couple lived in the Boston area, close to where Wilbur was born and raised in Massachusetts.
- Role in Later Years: Janet was described as a devoted spouse. She confirmed Wilbur’s death to major outlets like The New York Times, highlighting her role in his final days.
- Family: She was stepmother to Wilbur’s three children from his previous marriage (Wendy, Derron, and Christen). There are no public reports of additional children together.
Janet largely stayed out of the spotlight, allowing Wilbur to enjoy a quiet retirement after his MLB career. Wilbur was known for his durability as a pitcher—leading the league in innings pitched multiple times and mastering the knuckleball—but off the field, his life with Janet represented a peaceful chapter focused on family, hobbies, and the Boston community.
