Susan Deixler might be best known for her brief marriage to pop superstar Barry Manilow, but her story extends far beyond the fame and fleeting headlines of the past. This article seeks to explore the depth of her life’s journey, detailing not just her time with Manilow but her substantial personal growth following their separation. In reclaiming her story, we uncover a narrative of resilience, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to step out of someone else’s shadow.
Profile Summary
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Susan Deixler |
Date of Birth | August 1944 |
Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
Education | Eastern District High School |
Known For | First wife of Barry Manilow, Holistic Healer |
Marriage | Barry Manilow (1964 – 1965) |
Career | Holistic healing, Manager at a nursing home |
Philosophy | Focus on holistic health, aging with dignity |
Volunteer Work | Community programs for the elderly, WMSS |
Residence | California, USA |
Notable Traits | Resilience, dedication to elder care, and holistic healing |
A Love Story Begins

The love story of Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow began in the halls of their high school, where they first met as teenagers. This budding romance grew into a deeper connection, culminating in their marriage in 1964. This section examines the foundations of their relationship, set against the backdrop of the 1960s’ cultural and musical revolutions, providing insights into the young love that would soon be caught in the whirlwind of rising fame.
The Rising Star
As Barry Manilow’s career took off, the dynamics of their marriage were tested. This part of the story delves into the early days of Manilow’s career, exploring how his burgeoning success placed a strain on their relationship. It highlights the challenges they faced as Manilow’s focus shifted from his personal life to his public persona and the demands of his growing fanbase.
The Decision to Separate

The separation of Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow came swiftly, barely a year into their marriage. This segment discusses the pivotal moments that led to their split, emphasizing Susan’s perspective and the emotional toll it took on her. It explores her decision to step away from the marriage as Manilow’s star rose, a move that required immense personal courage and self-respect.
Life Beyond Barry
Post-divorce, Susan Deixler’s life took a path distinctly hers, away from the limelight and the shadow of her famous ex-husband. This section covers her life after the split, highlighting her personal achievements, her professional endeavors, and her journey towards a new identity independent of her past.
Finding Her Own Way

Susan’s post-celebrity life was marked by her deliberate choice to maintain a private existence. Here, we explore the choices she made to protect her privacy, her experiences in new environments, and the new relationships she formed, which helped her carve out a space where she could thrive on her own terms.
The Quiet Achiever
Despite choosing a life away from public scrutiny, Susan achieved much that is worthy of recognition. This part of the article looks at her contributions to the communities she was part of, her professional accomplishments, and the less-known but significant impacts she made in her chosen fields of interest.
Reflections on Identity and Resilience

In this section, we reflect on what Susan Deixler’s story teaches us about identity and resilience. It discusses how her experiences underscore the importance of forging one’s path and the strength required to redefine oneself away from the public’s expectations and the shadows of others.
Susan Today: A Legacy of Strength
Focusing on the present, this part of the article considers Susan Deixler’s legacy as it stands today. It reflects on how her life’s choices have influenced and inspired those who know her story, emphasizing the enduring strength of character she displayed throughout her life.
Conclusion: Beyond the Shadow
The article concludes by summarizing the life and lessons of Susan Deixler, emphasizing her journey beyond the shadow of Barry Manilow. It celebrates her as a symbol of personal integrity and resilience, offering a narrative that provides inspiration for anyone looking to reclaim their story and identity. This final part aims to cement her place not just as a footnote in a celebrity story but as a protagonist in her own right, whose life is a testament to the quiet yet profound victories of the human spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Susan Deixler?
- Susan Deixler is best known as the first wife of singer Barry Manilow, but she has her own story as a woman who found her path after their separation.
2. How long were Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow married?
- They were married in 1964 and separated within a year, as Manilow’s career started to take off.
3. What did Susan Deixler do after her marriage to Barry Manilow?
- After her divorce, Susan chose to live out of the public eye, focusing on her own personal and professional growth.
4. How did Susan Deixler handle the public attention from her marriage?
- Susan Deixler has maintained a private life, preferring not to engage with the media regarding her former marriage.
5. What can we learn from Susan Deixler’s life story?
- Susan Deixler’s life teaches the importance of resilience and the pursuit of one’s identity beyond the influence of others’ fame.