Who Was Marge Cooney, Phil Donahue's First Wife?

Harry Braun 25 May 2025

Who was the woman behind the iconic talk show host Phil Donahue, the man who revolutionized daytime television? Margaret "Marge" Cooney, Donahue's first wife, lived a life largely out of the public eye, yet her story is inextricably linked to one of the most influential figures in broadcasting history. Her journey, from college sweetheart to mother of five, reveals a woman of quiet strength and resilience, navigating the complexities of life alongside a husband whose career often placed him in the spotlight.

Marge Cooney's life was a study in contrasts. While her husband, Phil Donahue, became a household name, synonymous with groundbreaking talk show formats and engaging discussions, Marge remained largely behind the scenes, raising their five children and creating a stable home life amidst the whirlwind of Phil's demanding career. This deliberate choice to maintain a private life makes uncovering details about her a fascinating endeavor, piecing together fragments of information to understand the woman who shared Phil's life for nearly two decades.

Full Name	Margaret (Marge) Cooney Donahue
Born	West Orange, New Jersey
Residences	Chatham, New Jersey; Boca Raton, Florida; Sea Girt, New Jersey (summer)
Spouse	Phil Donahue (m. 1958 - div. 1975)
Children	Michael, Kevin, Daniel, James, Mary Rose
Died	February 2, 2018, Brandywine at Wall, New Jersey
Reference	Legacy.com Obituary

Marge and Phil's story began at the University of Notre Dame. The exact circumstances of their meeting remain a mystery, a testament to Marge's preference for privacy. Their courtship blossomed amidst the backdrop of collegiate life, culminating in marriage shortly after Phils graduation in 1958. Phils ambition to make his mark in broadcasting was evident early on, and Marge's unwavering support formed the bedrock of their family life as he embarked on his career path.

The couple welcomed five children Michael, Kevin, Daniel, James, and Mary Rose into their lives. While Phil's career took flight, Marge dedicated herself to raising their children, providing a sense of normalcy and stability as their fathers fame grew. She managed the household and nurtured their children's growth, all while navigating the unique challenges that come with being married to a public figure. This period, spanning almost two decades, saw Marge quietly shaping the lives of her children, instilling values and creating a loving home environment.

In 1975, Marge and Phil's marriage ended in divorce. The details surrounding their separation remain private, respecting the couples desire to keep personal matters out of the public eye. Following the divorce, Marge embarked on a new chapter in her life, embracing the opportunity to pursue her own interests and passions. Freed from the constraints of her previous life, she explored new avenues and rediscovered herself, demonstrating a resilience and strength of character that defined her.

Marge spent subsequent years residing in Chatham, New Jersey, and Boca Raton, Florida, while maintaining a cherished summer home in Sea Girt, New Jersey, a place filled with family memories spanning 57 years. These locations paint a picture of a woman who appreciated both the vibrant energy of city life and the tranquility of coastal living. She created homes and communities in these diverse locations, each reflecting a different facet of her personality and preferences.

Marge Cooney passed away on February 2, 2018, at Brandywine at Wall, a senior living community in Wall Township, New Jersey. Surrounded by her loving family, her passing marked the end of a life lived with quiet dignity and devotion to those closest to her. Although she remained largely out of the public spotlight, Marges influence on her family and her contribution to Phil Donahues early success cannot be overstated. Her story, though veiled in privacy, offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who played a pivotal role in shaping the life of a media icon, all while forging her own path with grace and determination.

While much of Marge's life remains unknown, the fragments we do know reveal a woman of strength, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her story serves as a reminder that behind every public figure, there are often unsung heroes whose contributions are immeasurable, shaping the narrative in ways both seen and unseen. Marge Cooney's legacy lies not in fame or fortune, but in the quiet strength she embodied and the enduring love she shared with her family.