How Devon Aoki’s Mother, Pamela Hilburger, Created Her Own Empire

When you hear the name Devon Aoki, you probably think of a stunning model or a cool actress from movies like 2 Fast 2 Furious and Sin City. But have you ever wondered who her mother is? That’s where Pamela Hilburger comes in.

Pamela isn’t just “Devon Aoki’s mother.” She’s a strong, creative, and inspiring woman who built a whole new life after stepping away from the spotlight. From being married to the founder of Benihana to building her own jewelry business, her story is full of surprises, heart, and quiet power.

In this article, we’ll walk through Pamela Hilburger’s full journey — her background, marriage, family, and how she created her own empire in the fashion world. Let’s start from the beginning.

Pamela Hilburger Quick Bio

Who Is Pamela Hilburger?

Pamela Hilburger is best known today as the mother of Devon Aoki, but she has her own story worth telling. She’s a jewelry designer, a former celebrity wife, and a woman who quietly made her own name in the world of art and fashion.

She became publicly known after marrying Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki, the Japanese-American founder of Benihana, a famous chain of restaurants. But even after that marriage ended, Pamela didn’t disappear — she grew. Over time, she used her creativity and passion to build something beautiful on her own terms.

Now, many people admire her not just because of who she was married to, but for the kind of life she built afterward — one centered on family, art, and independence.

Early Life of Pamela Hilburger

Pamela was born in 1951 in Germany, making her around 74 years old in 2025. She grew up in a family with German and English roots, which gives her a unique mix of cultures.

Her parents were Rosa D. and Edwin Hilburger, and she was raised with six siblings: Derek, Larry, Richard, Valerie, and her late brother Mark. That’s a big family, and it helped shape her into the kind, grounded person she is today.

Even though she was born in Germany, Pamela later moved to the United States and became a German-American citizen. She kept her strong values, stayed close to her family, and always had a love for fashion and art — even before the fame.

How Pamela Hilburger Met Hiroaki ‘Rocky’ Aoki

Pamela’s life took a big turn in the late 1970s when she met Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki, the man who started the famous Benihana restaurants. But here’s where things got complicated — Rocky was already married at the time.

Pamela and Rocky started a secret relationship, and things became public after a near-fatal speedboat accident in 1979. Rocky was in the hospital, and both his wife and girlfriend (Pamela) showed up at his bedside. He later joked in an interview that he had to “pretend to be unconscious” when he saw both women in the room.

Eventually, Rocky divorced his first wife, Chizuru Kobayashi, and married Pamela in 1981. Their love story had a dramatic start, but it led to a new chapter in both their lives.

Pamela Hilburger and Rocky Aoki’s Marriage and Divorce

Pamela and Rocky were married for about 10 years, from 1981 to 1991. During this time, they had three children together: Kyle Aoki, Echo V. Aoki, and Devon Aoki. Their marriage brought Pamela into the world of fame, wealth, and media attention.

But things didn’t stay perfect forever. After a decade, the couple divorced. The reasons were never made fully public, but it’s clear they had many challenges, especially with Rocky’s complicated personal life.

After the divorce, Rocky went on to marry again, but Pamela chose a different path. She stepped back from the spotlight and focused on something more personal — raising her kids and building her own dream.

Meet Devon Aoki, Pamela Hilburger’s Famous Daughter

Of all Pamela’s children, Devon Aoki is the one who became a global name. Born in 1982, Devon grew up to become one of the most unique-looking and in-demand models in the world. She walked for Versace, Chanel, Dior, and many other top brands, and later acted in major films.

Devon began modeling at just 13 years old, and by the time she was 16, she had replaced Naomi Campbell as the face of Versace. That’s a huge deal!

Pamela played a quiet but powerful role in Devon’s rise. She supported her dreams, stood by her side at events, and cheered her on through every step. Devon once posted a beautiful poem for her mom on Mother’s Day, calling Pamela her “jewel” and “the shining joy” of her kingdom.

That special bond between mother and daughter is still strong today, and it’s a big part of Pamela Hilburger’s legacy.

Pamela Hilburger’s Other Children and Family Life

Pamela isn’t just Devon’s mom — she has a big, loving family. With Rocky Aoki, she also had Kyle and Echo, both of whom live quieter lives away from the cameras. Kyle is her eldest, born around 1975, and Echo came in 1977.

Pamela also has two more children: Ellie Stuart Hunter (also known as Eleanor) and Cole Jackson. Ellie has appeared in photos on Pamela and Devon’s social media, and Cole is known for his love of art. He keeps a low profile but shares beautiful artwork online.

Pamela shows her love for all her children often. On Instagram, she posts sweet messages like “I love you son” and “My baby girl is all grown up.” It’s clear that, even more than fame or fashion, family means everything to her.

How Devon Aoki’s Mother Built Her Jewelry Empire

After her divorce from Rocky Aoki, Pamela Hilburger didn’t stay in the shadows. She used her creative spirit to do something amazing — she started her own journey in the jewelry world.

From a young age, Pamela had always loved fashion, gems, and beautiful designs. So, turning that passion into a business felt natural. She began designing her own pieces and working with well-known fashion brands. Over time, she became known for crafting elegant jewelry that many A-list clients admired.

She didn’t rush into fame. Instead, Pamela quietly built her reputation in the fashion world. While her daughter Devon was shining on the runway, Pamela was shining in her own way — behind the scenes, designing art that people loved to wear.

Pamela Hilburger’s Private Life Today

Even though she’s connected to big names, Devon Aoki’s mother now lives a peaceful life. She currently lives in Canoga Park, California, away from the spotlight. She isn’t often seen at public events, but she shares special moments on her Instagram account.

Pamela now enjoys being a grandmother. She has several grandchildren, and she clearly loves spending time with them. Her Instagram is full of sweet photos showing hugs, laughs, and little birthday celebrations.

She also continues to express herself through art and design. Whether it’s through jewelry or paintings, Pamela finds joy in creating things. It’s her way of staying connected to her passion while enjoying a slower, more peaceful life.

Pamela Hilburger’s Relationship with Her Children

Pamela has a beautiful bond with all her kids. She shows her love for each of them in simple, sweet ways. On social media, you’ll find her sharing warm messages like, “I love you Cole”, or “My darling Echo”, or celebrating her daughter Ellie with proud words like, “My baby girl is all grown up.”

Her connection with Devon Aoki is especially strong. For Mother’s Day, Devon once posted a touching poem just for her mom, calling her the “jewel of my kingdom.” It’s clear that Pamela’s love and support have made a big impact on all her children.

Even though her kids live their own lives, they still share special moments with Pamela. That shows the strength of the family bond she worked hard to build — and keep.

Devon Aoki’s Mother and Her Legacy in Fashion

You might not see Pamela Hilburger walking red carpets, but her influence is real. She has been a big part of her daughter Devon’s success, not just as a mom, but as someone who helped shape her fashion sense and confidence.

Pamela’s love for design, beauty, and balance has clearly passed on to her children. Devon’s bold style and creative energy likely came from watching her mother’s quiet determination.

While Pamela focused on her own jewelry business, she also supported Devon’s career behind the scenes. Her calm strength and artistic eye have played a big part in the Aoki family’s fashion legacy.

Pamela Hilburger’s Net Worth and Career Highlights

Even though she keeps things low-key, Pamela Hilburger has done very well for herself. Her estimated net worth is around $1 million, and she reportedly earns about $70,000 per year from her work in design and art.

She didn’t just use her money for herself. After her divorce from Rocky Aoki, she received a large settlement and chose to donate part of it to charity. For example, she helped victims of the 2004 Tsunami in Asia, showing that she’s not only creative but also kind-hearted.

Her career isn’t about fame — it’s about passion, family, and giving back. And that’s what makes her journey so inspiring.

Final Thoughts

Pamela Hilburger may have started out as a celebrity wife, but she didn’t let that define her. She chose to write her own story. She raised strong, creative children, built a career doing what she loves, and stayed true to herself the whole way.

She didn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Through quiet strength, love, and creativity, Pamela became a respected designer, a proud mother, and a loving grandmother.

And that’s what makes her story special. It reminds us that even when life takes unexpected turns, we can always build something beautiful — just like Devon Aoki’s mother, Pamela Hilburger, did.

(FAQs)

How old is Pamela Hilburger now?

Pamela Hilburger was born in 1951, so she is about 74 years old in 2025.

What did Pamela Hilburger look like when she was young?

When she was young, Pamela was very pretty, with green eyes and a calm, classy look. She caught the eye of Rocky Aoki even while he was still married!

Did Pamela Hilburger really make jewelry?

Yes! Pamela became a jewelry designer after her divorce. She made fancy pieces for rich clients and worked with famous fashion brands.

How tall is Pamela Hilburger?

She is 5 feet 5 inches tall (or 165 cm). That’s a little above average height for women.

What is her bond with Devon Aoki like?

Pamela is Devon Aoki’s mother, and they are very close. Devon once called her mom “my jewel” in a sweet message.