Who Is Lori Matsuoka? Inside the Life of Bill Walton’s Devoted Wife

Lori Matsuoka may not be a name you hear every day, but her story is one full of love, kindness, and quiet strength. She was the wife of NBA legend Bill Walton and stood by his side through every high and low. While Bill was known for his basketball skills and TV work, Lori was busy making a difference in her own way—through helping others, supporting charities, and being a true partner.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Lori Matsuoka’s life. We’ll talk about her early years, how she met Bill, her career journey, and how she became a strong and loving presence in their home. Let’s begin.

Lori Matsuoka Quick Bio

Who Is Lori Matsuoka?

Lori Matsuoka is best known as the second wife of Bill Walton, the famous basketball player and sports broadcaster. But she’s more than just “Bill Walton’s wife.” Lori is a kind-hearted woman who has dedicated much of her life to helping others.

She is a philanthropist, a writer, and someone who found her true passion in supporting nonprofit groups and animal causes. Over the years, she has quietly built a life full of meaning and love—far from the spotlight. People who know her say she’s thoughtful, gentle, and deeply caring.

Lori Matsuoka’s Early Life and Background

Lori was born in March 1963 in Tracy, California, a small town in the United States. Her family background is a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Hawaiian roots, which gave her a unique cultural upbringing.

She once shared that her father worked hard growing tomatoes for Heinz, vegetables for Del Monte, and almonds for Blue Diamond. That kind of farming life teaches discipline, teamwork, and love for the land—and it seems Lori carried those values with her as she grew up.

Even from a young age, Lori learned how important it is to care for others, to work hard, and to give back. These values became a big part of who she is today.

Education and Time at UCLA

After finishing high school, Lori went on to study at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She earned a degree in sociology and business, which helped her understand both people and how the business world works.

While at UCLA, Lori joined student service organizations. She once said that this was her first real experience doing charity work—and she loved it. She realized she could make a difference just by giving her time and care.

Her time at UCLA didn’t just give her a degree. It also opened the door to the kind of work she would later love most: helping others.

Lori Matsuoka’s Career Before Fame

After graduating, Lori began working in the business world. She got jobs with well-known companies like Black & Decker, Allergan Pharmaceuticals, and Ray-Ban. Her roles were in sales and marketing, and she was very good at what she did.

But even though she was successful and made good money, something was missing. Lori didn’t feel happy or fulfilled in the corporate world. She once said that she worked up to 80 hours a week, but still didn’t feel like the work truly mattered.

In 2002, she made a brave choice. She left her corporate job to search for something more meaningful—a path that would lead her closer to her heart’s true calling.

From Business to Philanthropy

Lori didn’t just leave her old job—she changed her life. She started working with nonprofit groups, beginning with Canine Companions for Independence, where she trained service dogs for veterans and people with disabilities.

That one step led to many others. She got involved with groups like the San Diego Symphony, SNAP, the Timken Museum of Art, and the San Diego Public Library Foundation. Each time, Lori brought energy, heart, and a strong desire to help.

She didn’t stop there. She went on to serve on 17 charity boards and led over 27 fundraisers. Her work touched everything from animals and the arts to children and education. Lori found joy in giving back—and she never looked back.

Lori Matsuoka and Bill Walton’s Love Story

Lori met Bill Walton in 1990, and their story started in a very fun and simple way. They met at a Grateful Dead concert (a band they both loved). Bill would later joke that they met at “church”—because those concerts felt spiritual to him.

They quickly bonded over music, dogs, and a shared love for life. Lori once said that Bill took her to seven Bob Dylan concerts in a row, and when she stayed through all of them, he knew she was the one.

In 1991, they got married. It was the start of a strong and loving relationship that would last 33 years, until Bill’s passing in 2024. They lived together in San Diego, where they created a peaceful and private life filled with music, kindness, and giving back.

Inside Their Life Together

Lori Matsuoka and Bill Walton shared a beautiful life for over three decades. While Bill was known for his loud voice and big personality, Lori brought calm and warmth into their home. They balanced each other perfectly.

When Bill went through a very painful back surgery, Lori was by his side every step of the way. He couldn’t walk or move well, and the recovery was long and slow. But Lori didn’t give up. She wrote little notes on yellow Post-its and placed them around the house. These simple notes said things like “Today you sat up,” or “Today you walked with your cane.”

These messages gave Bill hope. He often said that Lori helped him believe in healing. She made him feel strong, even when things were tough. This quiet support showed how deep their love was.

Step-Motherhood and Family Life

Though Lori and Bill didn’t have children together, Lori became a stepmother to Bill’s four sons from his first marriage: Adam, Nathan, Luke, and Chris. She embraced the role with love and care.

All four boys played basketball in college. One of them, Luke Walton, even made it to the NBA and later became a coach. Lori supported them in the background, showing up for family and cheering them on.

Bill once said, “We have six children and 14 grandchildren.” That showed how Lori was fully part of the family. She may not have given birth to them, but she helped raise and love them just the same.

Lori Matsuoka’s Role at Giving Back Magazine

Lori found her true calling as the Philanthropy Editor at Giving Back Magazine. She writes a column called Feel Good Friday, where she shares positive stories, kind people, and helpful causes.

In her own words, she said,

“There are so many good people and nonprofits in the world that it’s my honor to highlight them every week.”

She uses her voice to lift others up. Whether it’s helping kids, supporting the arts, or raising money for animal shelters, Lori is always trying to make the world a little better. This is a big part of who she is—and why so many people admire her.

Lori Matsuoka’s Social Media and Public Life

Lori keeps her life very private, but she does have an Instagram account where she shares photos and moments that matter to her. You’ll see posts about her dogs, kind acts, music concerts, and sometimes even memories with Bill.

She doesn’t post often, and her account is private, but her followers appreciate her gentle and positive style. Lori isn’t looking for fame. She’s simply sharing goodness and light, just like she does in real life.

Unlike many people in the spotlight, Lori Matsuoka stays away from drama. She focuses on real things—like helping others, loving her family, and finding peace.

Where Is Lori Matsuoka Now?

After Bill Walton passed away in May 2024 from colon cancer, Lori stayed strong. She still lives in San Diego, in the same home they shared together.

She continues to work with nonprofit groups and write for Giving Back Magazine. She also honors Bill’s memory by sharing stories and supporting the things he loved—music, nature, basketball, and kindness.

Even in grief, Lori keeps giving back. That’s what makes her so special. Her love didn’t end when Bill’s life did. It continues in everything she does.

Final Thoughts

Lori Matsuoka may not be a famous star, but her story is full of heart. She was a caring wife, a loving stepmother, and a quiet force in her community. Her journey from the business world to charity work shows that it’s never too late to follow your heart.

Her love story with Bill Walton was strong and real. Through health battles, family life, and years of togetherness, Lori stood by him with patience and joy. Even now, she carries his memory forward with strength and grace.

Who is Lori Matsuoka? She’s someone who proves that kindness, love, and service can make a big difference in the world. And she reminds us that behind every great person, there may be someone quietly making everything better.

(FAQs)

How old is Lori Matsuoka now?

Lori Matsuoka was born in March 1963, which makes her 62 years old in 2025 — many people are surprised by her youthful energy!

How tall is Lori Matsuoka?

Lori is about 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall, which made her look tiny next to Bill Walton, who stood at 7 feet 2 inches!

What is Lori Matsuoka’s net worth?

Her estimated net worth is around $100,000, even after decades with NBA star Bill Walton — she’s lived a humble and simple life focused on giving, not wealth.

Did Lori Matsuoka have any children with Bill Walton?

No, Lori didn’t have any biological children, but she became stepmother to Bill’s four sons and helped raise them with love.

Where is Lori Matsuoka now? Did she remarry?

Lori still lives in San Diego and has not remarried since Bill Walton’s death in 2024. She continues her work in charity and quietly honors his memory every day.

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