Marge Cooney was the first wife of Phil Donahue, a well-known television personality, writer, and film producer. While her name is often linked to Donahue, she lived a largely private life. Despite staying away from the limelight, she played a significant role during Phil’s early career and their family life.
Although Marge preferred a quiet life, her marriage to Phil Donahue inevitably placed her in the public’s awareness. However, very little personal information about her was shared. This article takes an in-depth look at her life, marriage, and legacy, shedding light on the woman behind the name.
| Full Name | Marge Cooney |
| Famous As | Phil Donahue’s Ex Wife |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Education | Marquette University, University of Notre Dame |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Spouse | Phil Donahue (m. 1958 – div. 1975) |
| Children | Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, James Donahue |
| Profession | Homemaker |
| Passed Away | February 2, 2018 |
Early Life and Background
Marge Cooney was born and raised in the United States. However, not much information is available regarding her exact date of birth, family background, or early education. She grew up in a modest family and later pursued higher education at Marquette University before transferring to the University of Notre Dame.
She maintained a private lifestyle even in her younger years. There are no extensive records of her childhood or aspirations, but it is known that she valued education and personal growth. Her life took a turn when she met Phil Donahue, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in her journey.
How Marge Cooney Met Phil Donahue
During her time at the University of Notre Dame, Marge Cooney met Phil Donahue. Their friendship quickly blossomed into romance, leading to their eventual marriage. At the time, Phil was a young man with aspirations of making it big in the media industry.
Their love story was like that of many young couples—full of dreams, ambitions, and a vision for the future. They found companionship in one another, which provided a foundation for their eventual marriage. However, as life unfolded, they faced challenges that would later impact their relationship.
Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue’s Marriage
On February 1, 1958, Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue tied the knot at San Felipe de Neri Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The couple settled into married life, and Marge became a devoted wife and mother. She provided support as Phil pursued a career in television, balancing family responsibilities while he worked hard to establish himself.
Their marriage lasted for 17 years, during which time Marge primarily focused on raising their children. While Phil became a household name, Marge remained a behind-the-scenes figure, ensuring their home life was stable and filled with love. However, their relationship would soon be tested by the growing pressures of Phil’s career.
Life as a Wife and Mother
Marge and Phil were blessed with five children: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James Donahue. Raising five kids was no easy task, and Marge dedicated much of her time to their upbringing. As Phil’s career took off, Marge took on the primary responsibility of managing their household.
Balancing the demands of motherhood with a marriage to a rising television star came with its own set of challenges. Marge ensured that her children had a loving and nurturing environment while Phil worked long hours. Despite their best efforts, the difficulties of maintaining a work-life balance eventually took a toll on their marriage.
Phil Donahue’s Rising Career and Its Impact on Marriage
Phil Donahue’s career soared in the 1960s when he launched his talk show, “The Phil Donahue Show.” The increasing demands of his work meant long hours and frequent travel, putting strain on their marriage. The challenges of balancing personal and professional life became evident as the couple struggled with their growing differences.
While Phil gained fame and recognition, Marge remained focused on her responsibilities at home. The lack of time together and the changing dynamics of their relationship created a distance between them. Their love and shared history were strong, but the challenges they faced proved to be a turning point in their marriage.
Separation and Divorce
After 17 years of marriage, Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue separated in 1973. Marge moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, with their daughter Mary Rose, while Phil stayed with their four sons. Though they attempted reconciliation, their differences proved irreconcilable, leading to a formal divorce in 1975.
The separation was not easy for either of them, especially with five children involved. However, both Marge and Phil tried to handle the situation with grace and dignity. Despite their divorce, they maintained mutual respect for one another and continued to co-parent their children as best as they could.
Life After Divorce
Following the divorce, Marge Cooney chose to live away from the public eye. She moved to New Mexico, where she focused on raising Mary Rose. Unlike Phil, who remained in the limelight, Marge preferred a quiet, private life.
Her post-divorce years were dedicated to self-reflection and personal growth. While she remained out of the media, she continued to play an important role in her children’s lives. She found peace in her privacy and in the simple joys of daily life.
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Phil Donahue’s Second Marriage
Five years after his divorce from Marge Cooney, Phil Donahue married actress and activist Marlo Thomas in 1980. The couple has remained together ever since, sharing a strong bond. Marlo became a stepmother to Phil’s children, but Marge maintained her role as their mother.
Though Marge and Phil had moved on with their lives, their shared past remained an important part of their personal histories. While Phil continued his career with his new wife, Marge chose to maintain her distance from the public and focus on herself.
Marge Cooney’s Community Involvement
Although Marge stayed away from fame, she was an active member of her community. She was a parishioner at St. Mark’s Church in Sea Girt, New Jersey, and a member of the Spring Lake Golf Club. Additionally, she contributed to volunteer work at St. Joan of Arc Church in Boca Raton, Florida.
Giving back to her community was something Marge valued deeply. She found joy and fulfillment in serving others and building strong relationships with those around her. Her commitment to kindness and charity was evident throughout her life.
Later Years and Passing
Marge Cooney spent her later years in New Mexico and New Jersey, focusing on family and community service. She passed away on February 2, 2018, at Brandywine at Wall in New Jersey. Her funeral services were held privately, and she was remembered as a dedicated mother and kindhearted individual.
Her passing marked the end of a quiet yet impactful life. Though she did not seek public recognition, those who knew her appreciated her warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family.
Marge Cooney’s Legacy
Although she lived most of her life outside of the public eye, Marge Cooney’s impact was felt by those who knew her. She was a dedicated mother, a supportive wife during Phil Donahue’s early years, and a compassionate individual committed to community service.
Her legacy lives on through her children and the lives she touched through her community work. Marge’s story is one of resilience, love, and quiet strength.
How Marge Cooney is Remembered Today
Marge Cooney’s life may not have been widely publicized, but she remains a significant part of Phil Donahue’s journey. Her children and close friends remember her as a loving and caring woman who played an essential role in shaping her family’s life.
Her memory continues to be honored by those who knew her best. Despite living away from the public eye, her impact was lasting and deeply felt.
Conclusion
Marge Cooney lived a quiet and private life, even when she was married to Phil Donahue. She was a loving mother and a kind person who always put her family first. Even after her divorce, she stayed strong and focused on raising her children with love and care.
Her story is a reminder that not everyone in the public eye wants to be famous. Marge chose a peaceful life and stayed true to herself. She may not be widely known, but she will always be remembered by those who knew and loved her.
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FAQs
Q: Who was Marge Cooney?
A: Marge Cooney was the first wife of Phil Donahue and the mother of his five children.
Q: When did Marge Cooney marry Phil Donahue?
A: She married Phil Donahue on February 1, 1958.
Q: How many children did Marge Cooney have?
A: Marge Cooney had five children: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James Donahue.
Q: Why did Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue divorce?
A: Their marriage ended due to growing differences and the pressures of Phil’s rising career.
Q: Did Marge Cooney remarry after divorcing Phil Donahue?
A: No, she chose to live a private life after her divorce.
Q: When did Marge Cooney pass away?
A: She passed away on February 2, 2018.
Q: How is Marge Cooney remembered today?
A: She is remembered as a loving mother, a kind person, and someone who valued her privacy.