Marge Cooney: The Untold Story of Phil Donahue’s First Wife

Most people know Phil Donahue as the famous host of The Phil Donahue Show, one of the first talk shows that truly changed daytime TV. But behind every big name, there is often someone whose story remains untold. That person, in this case, is Marge Cooney, his first wife.

Marge Cooney was not a celebrity. She lived a quiet and peaceful life away from cameras and headlines. But she was an important part of Phil Donahue’s early years and the mother of his five children. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at her real story — her life, love, family, and the legacy she left behind.

Marge Cooney Quick Bio

Who Was Marge Cooney?

Marge Cooney, whose full name was Margaret Mary Cooney, was born in 1936 in West Orange, New Jersey. She came from a simple and loving family and lived a very private life.

Most people came to know her only because she was the first wife of Phil Donahue, one of the most famous TV hosts in America. But Marge was much more than just a famous wife — she was a homemaker, a community volunteer, and a devoted mother.

Even though she wasn’t in the spotlight, Marge touched the lives of many people around her with her kindness and strong values.

Marge Cooney’s Childhood and Family

Marge grew up in a warm and caring home. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. James B. Cooney, and they raised her in Chatham, New Jersey. Later, she also lived in Boca Raton, Florida, for many years.

One place that was very special to her heart was Sea Girt, New Jersey. She spent summers there for over 57 years, which shows how deeply she loved that area. For Marge, Sea Girt was more than just a vacation spot — it was a place full of memories and peace.

Her strong roots in family and community were something she carried with her for the rest of her life.

Marge Cooney’s Education Journey

Marge Cooney was also well-educated. She first went to St. Mary’s High School, where she built a strong foundation for her future. After high school, she continued her studies at the College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Later, she enrolled at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for higher education. These schools were known for their values and strong academics, which likely helped shape Marge into the kind, thoughtful person she became.

She was someone who believed in learning and personal growth — values she later passed on to her own children.

How Marge Cooney Met Phil Donahue

So how did Marge Cooney meet the man who would become one of the most well-known names in TV history? The story goes back to their college years. Both she and Phil Donahue were students at the time, and like many young people, they met, became friends, and slowly fell in love.

Their connection grew over time. They shared common dreams and values, and soon it was clear that they wanted to spend their lives together. It was the kind of young, hopeful love that many people can relate to — simple, honest, and full of promise.

This was the beginning of a new chapter for both Marge and Phil, long before the fame and cameras ever entered the picture.

Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue’s Wedding

Marge and Phil got married on February 1, 1958. Their wedding took place at the beautiful and historic San Felipe de Neri Church. It was a joyful moment for the couple and their families, as they officially started their journey together as husband and wife.

In the years that followed, they built a family and a life together. They settled in Ohio, where Phil’s TV career would soon begin to grow. Marge supported her husband through those early years while also focusing on raising their children and creating a happy home.

It was a time full of hope, dreams, and new beginnings.

Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue’s Children

Over the next few years, Marge and Phil were blessed with five children. Their family grew quickly, and each child brought more love and joy into their home.

Here are their children in order of birth:

• Michael Donahue – born in 1959

• Kevin Donahue – born in 1960

• Daniel Donahue – born in 1961

• James (Jim) Donahue – born in 1963

• Mary Rose Donahue – born in 1965

Marge was a full-time mom, which was not an easy job — especially while her husband’s career was becoming more demanding. But she stayed strong and loving, always putting her children first. She created a warm and caring home where her kids could grow up feeling safe and supported.

Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue’s Divorce

Even though their marriage lasted 17 years, things didn’t work out in the end. In 1975, Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue decided to go their separate ways. The reasons behind the divorce were never shared with the public, and both handled the situation with grace and privacy.

As part of the divorce settlement, Phil Donahue got custody of their four sons, while Marge got custody of their daughter, Mary Rose. This arrangement showed the trust and respect they still had for each other when it came to raising their children.

While their marriage had ended, both continued to focus on family and moved forward with strength.

Life of Marge Cooney After the Divorce

After the divorce, Marge Cooney stepped away from public life. She moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, with her daughter, Mary Rose, to start fresh in a quiet and peaceful place.

Instead of chasing attention or fame, Marge focused on what mattered most to her — raising her daughter with love and care. She made sure Mary Rose had a stable home and a happy childhood, just like she had given to all her children before.

Marge lived a very private life. She was not interested in interviews or media talk. She simply wanted to live calmly, surrounded by her loved ones and her faith.

Marge Cooney’s Faith and Community Work

One of the most important parts of Marge’s life was her strong Catholic faith. Her belief in God gave her strength, especially during hard times.

She became an active member of St. Mark’s Church in Sea Girt, New Jersey, and also helped out at St. Joan of Arc Church in Boca Raton, Florida. Her work at these churches showed how much she cared for her community and others.

She also joined the Spring Lake Golf Club, where she enjoyed spending quiet time with friends. People who knew her said she was kind, respectful, and full of grace. Even though she wasn’t in the public eye, she made a big difference in small, meaningful ways.

Phil Donahue’s Life After Marge Cooney

After their divorce, Phil Donahue continued to rise in his career. He later met actress Marlo Thomas when she came as a guest on his show. The two felt a quick connection and started dating in 1977.

They got married on May 21, 1980, and stayed together for over 44 years, until Phil’s passing in 2024. Marlo became a stepmother to all five of Phil’s children. She didn’t try to replace Marge but instead built a friendly bond with the kids, especially the boys who lived with Phil.

Phil and Marlo later co-wrote a book called “What Makes a Marriage Last”, where they shared stories and advice about strong relationships. Together, they created a warm and loving blended family.

Where Are Marge Cooney’s Children Now?

Marge Cooney’s children went on to live full and interesting lives. Let’s take a quick look at where they are now:

Michael Donahue, the eldest, worked in TV media. He married Martha Reed von Gal, and they had two children, Connor and Kenzie. His wife, Reed, also ran a preschool and supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Kevin Donahue stayed close to his father and stepmother. He enjoyed running marathons and spending time with family. He lived near New York City.

Daniel Donahue chose a private life and lived in Connecticut. He often joined family holidays and stayed close with his siblings.

Mary Rose Donahue, who lived with Marge after the divorce, later studied culinary arts. She also kept a close connection with the entire family and often celebrated holidays together.

James “Jim” Donahue, the youngest son, had a special career. He worked as a researcher for a nonprofit group and later became a lawyer in Hawaii. Sadly, Jim passed away in 2014 at the age of 51 from an aortic aneurysm. His ashes were scattered in the warm ocean waters of Honolulu, where he had lived.

Marge Cooney’s Final Years and Obituary

Marge Cooney lived a long and peaceful life. She passed away on February 2, 2018, at the age of 82, in a senior care home called Brandywine at Wall, located in New Jersey.

Even though she was no longer married to Phil Donahue, she remained a loving mother, a kind neighbor, and a gentle soul who believed in doing good quietly. She was remembered warmly by her family and community.

Her life may not have made headlines, but her kindness, love, and strength made a lasting impact on those who knew her.

Final Thoughts

The story of Marge Cooney is a reminder that you don’t need to be famous to live a meaningful life. She showed that being a good parent, a caring neighbor, and a faithful community member is more than enough.

She helped raise five children — some of whom followed very different paths. And even through personal challenges, she always stood with grace and strength.

Today, Marge’s memory lives on through her children and grandchildren, and in the quiet hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her.

Marge Cooney may have been known first as the wife of a famous man, but her story is special all on its own. She chose a life of peace over fame. She chose love, family, and service over attention and the spotlight.

Her journey reminds us that sometimes the most beautiful lives are lived quietly — through kindness, faith, and everyday moments. As we remember her, we see a woman who was strong, loving, and true to herself.

(FAQs)

When did Marge Cooney die and where?

Marge Cooney died on February 2, 2018, at a care home called Brandywine at Wall in New Jersey. Many people didn’t know she had passed away.

How old was Marge Cooney, and when was she born?

She was 82 years old when she died. She was born in 1936, but her exact birthday was never shared with the public.

How many kids did Marge Cooney have with Phil Donahue?

Marge and Phil had five children together. After their divorce, Phil took care of the four sons, and Marge took care of their daughter, which many people find surprising.

What was Marge Cooney like when she was young?

When she was young, Marge was smart, kind, and full of life. She gave up a lot to help Phil and raise their kids while he became famous.

Was Marge Cooney rich when she died?

Even though she was married to a famous TV star, Marge lived a simple life. She was not rich and didn’t live like a celebrity.