Janet Shearon holds a significant place in history as the first wife of the legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong. Her life was intricately linked with the remarkable journey of her husband.
Janet shared an enduring bond with Neil for nearly four decades, from 1956 to 1994. The couple raised three children – Karen, Rick, and Mark Armstrong.
Her unwavering support accompanied Neil’s evolution from a daring test pilot to a pioneering astronaut, resulting in his historic Apollo 11 Moon landing. Her legacy thrives through her pivotal role as a mother and steadfast partner.
Janet Shearon’s life story shines a light on the personal facet of a space exploration icon. This article will detail Janet’s early life, career, famous ex-husband, marriage, children, net worth, etc.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Janet Shearon |
| Famous as | Neil Armstrong’s Ex-Wife |
| Date of Birth | 1934 |
| Place of Birth | Wilmette, Illinois |
| Date of Death | June 21, 2018 |
| Place of Death | West Chester Township, Ohio, USA |
| Profession | Swimming Team Coach |
| Ex-Husband | Neil Armstrong |
| Children | Karen, Rick, and Mark |
| Parents | Clarence Shearon and Louise Shearon |
| Gender | Female |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Hair Color | Grey |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Net Worth | Approx. $5 Million |
The Early Life of Janet Shearon
Shearon Armstrong was born in 1934 in Wilmette, Illinois, Janet. She was the youngest daughter of Dr. Clarence Shearon and Louise Shearon. She completed her education at New Trier High School.
Later, Janet pursued studies at Purdue University’s School of Home Economics, where she became an Alpha Chi Omega sorority member.
Neil Armstrong: Janet Shearon’s Ex-Husband
Neil Armstrong, the pioneering astronaut, forever etched his name in history on July 20, 1969, as the first person to walk on the Moon’s surface.
Born in 1930 in Wapakoneta, Ohio, his iconic words, “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind,” resonate through time. Beyond the Moon landing, Armstrong, who passed away in 2012, excelled as a naval aviator and test pilot.
His Apollo 11 mission, alongside Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, stands as an unparalleled 20th-century achievement. It solidified his legendary status in the history of space exploration.
Janet Shearon and Neil Armstrong’s Marriage
Neil Armstrong and Janet Shearon’s love story began at Purdue University, where they crossed paths and eventually tied the knot on January 28, 1956.
Throughout their 38-year marriage, the couple welcomed three children into their lives. Despite the challenges posed by Neil’s demanding career, Janet stood as an unwavering presence.
Their journey together weathered the monumental Apollo 11 mission in 1969, where Neil left his historic mark on the Moon. They navigated various homes together, from the picturesque San Gabriel Mountains to settling in Ohio.
However, their enduring bond ended in 1994. The couple decided to part ways through a divorce after nearly four decades of marriage.
Janet Shearon and Neil Armstrong’s Divorce
Neil Armstrong and Janet Shearon’s enduring marriage ended in 1994 after a remarkable 38 years together. Their journey was marked by the challenges of Armstrong’s demanding career as an astronaut and aeronautical engineer.
The strains of high-profile responsibilities and family life possibly contributed to their parting ways. Specific details about their separation remain private.
Post-divorce, both pursued separate paths. Neil Armstrong’s passing on August 25, 2012, in Cincinnati, Ohio, left a void in space exploration.
Janet Shearon Armstrong led a more private existence, eventually passing on June 21, 2018, in West Chester, Ohio. Their story shows the intricate interplay between stellar professional accomplishments and personal relationships.
Janet Shearon’s Children
Karen Anne Armstrong
Karen Anne Armstrong, born to astronaut Neil Armstrong and Janet Shearon on April 13, 1959, left a lasting mark despite her brief life.
Her passing at the tender age of 2 on January 28, 1962, deeply affected Neil Armstrong, who affectionately called her “Muffie.” Karen’s role in the Armstrong family was significant, even though she didn’t witness her father’s iconic Moon landing in 1969.
Her memory remains poignant, as seen through the “Muffie crater” named in her honour during one of his lunar missions. Her loss shaped Neil’s outlook, emphasizing the human aspect of space exploration.
Rick Armstrong
Rick Armstrong, born to Neil Armstrong and Janet Shearon on June 30, 1957, in Lancaster, California, inherited a legacy of space exploration.
Amidst Neil’s historic Apollo 11 Moon landing, the family moved to Houston and later Washington DC. Rick, with siblings Mark and Karen, experienced an upbringing tied to space history.
He ventured into judo, skiing, mountaineering, and paragliding, even authoring books on positivity and philosophy. Rick’s diverse pursuits showcase his individuality alongside his family’s astronomical contributions.
Mark Armstrong
Mark Armstrong, son of astronaut Neil Armstrong and Janet Shearon, was born in Texas on April 8, 1963. He’s notable for his contributions to film as an actor and writer.
His roles in movies like “Armstrong” (2019) and “First Man” (2018) highlight his engagement with space history. Mark’s involvement in “First Man” adds a personal touch to his creative pursuits.
Beyond film, he’s ventured into theatre and entertainment projects, showcasing his diverse talents. Mark’s presence in the industry and familial link to space exploration enrich his artistic and historical journey.
Janet Shearon’s Career
Janet Shearon wasn’t solely defined by her marriage to Neil Armstrong. Beyond being the first wife of the renowned astronaut, she forged her impactful path.
In 1964, she founded and coached the El Lago Aquanauts synchronized swimming team. Her leadership skills and dedication to fitness and teamwork shone through this role.
Her journey spotlights her multidimensional character, showcasing her contributions beyond her sphere. Janet Shearon’s legacy will continue to inspire people even after many years of passing.
Death of Janet Shearon
Janet Shearon Armstrong, or Janet Shearon, passed away from lung cancer on June 21, 2018, in West Chester Township, Ohio. She bravely battled the illness until age 84, leaving a legacy beyond her role as Neil’s spouse, encompassing her support, motherhood, and personal journey.
Net Worth of Janet Shearon
Janet Shearon Armstrong and Neil Armstrong were married from 1956 to 1994. Upon their divorce, Janet received a substantial portion of Neil’s assets, valued at around $2.24 million. Considering inflation, this wealth would amount to approximately $5 million in today’s terms.
