Marge Cooney (Phil Donahue’s ex wife) Children/ Age/ Husband/ Career/ Death & Facts

Marge Cooney gained recognition as the former ex-wife of Phil Donahue. A well-known American TV host, author and filmmaker. She passed away on February 2, 2018 at Brandywine at Wall. Her funeral was attended by her children and other close family members.

Marge Cooney Biography

Marge Cooney was born in West Orange, New Jersey, and has lived in Chatham, NJ, and Boca Raton, FL for more than 30 years. Although her birthplace and parents are not well-documented, she is an American citizen. Marge also resided in Sea Girt for 57 years. Read more Liam gained fame

For information on Marge Cooney’s net worth, biography, and the obituary of Phil Donahue’s first wife, you can explore details about her life. She gained public attention through her marriage to Phil Donahue on February 1st, 1958, and their shared journey of raising five children.

Marge Cooney Height/ Weight/ Age

Details about her height and weight are not provided. Born as Margaret Cooney in West Orange, New Jersey, USA, she resided in Chatham, NJ, and Boca Raton, FL for three decades. She spent summers in Sea Girt for 57 years. Marge Cooney’s exact date of birth is unconfirmed, making her age unknown.

NameMarge Cooney
BirthplaceWest Orange, New Jersey, USA
ReligionRoman Catholic
NationalityAmerican
CollegeMarquette University
BrotherJim Cooney
BoyfriendPhil Donahue (whom she married in 1958)
Marital StatusDivorced
HusbandPhil Donahue (1958-1975)
ChildrenSons: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, and James (Jim)

Marge Cooney Net worth

Marge Cooney Net worth

As the Ex-wife of a well-known reporter, she has accumulated a decent amount of money. However, specific details about her net worth, income, and salary are not available.

In contrast, her ex-husband Phil Donahue has an estimated net worth of around $150 million.

She did not receive any awards or notable recognition in her career. In contrast, her ex-husband has earned several accolades, including 20 Emmy Awards and 10 awards for Outstanding Talk Show Host during his broadcasting career.

Phil Donahue received prestigious honors such as the ‘Peabody Award’ in 1980 and was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame on November 20, 1983.

Marge Cooney Parents

We do not have information about her parents’ names, and details about any siblings are also unknown. While some sources suggest Jim Cooney as a possible brother, there is no confirmed record of her siblings.

Marge Cooney Husband

Marge Cooney Husband

Delving into her romantic journey, Margaret Cooney Donihue’s love story began in college, where she and Phil first crossed paths. College sweethearts, their connection blossomed when Marge was studying at Marquette University, and they initially met at Notre Dame. Their dating journey commenced, filled with moments of quality time that deepened their bond.

After graduating in 1957, Marge and Phil took the next step and got engaged. The culmination of their love story occurred on February 1, 1958, as the couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony surrounded by close friends, family, and relatives. The early years of their marriage were marked by delightful moments and a strong marital bond.

Children

Discussing Marge and Phil Donahue’s family, they were blessed with five children. The four sons are Michael Donahue (born in 1959), Kevin Donahue (born in 1960), Daniel Donahue (born in 1961), and James, also known as Jim Donahue (born in 1963). Their only daughter, Mary Rose Donahue, came into the world in 1965.

Challenges and Changes: The Unraveling of Marge and Phil Donahue’s Marriage

The marriage, unfortunately, wasn’t a happy one. In 1973, Maggie Cooney decided to return to her hometown of Albuquerque with her two children, renting an apartment there. Meanwhile, Phil Donahue took care of their other three kids.

After a separation of 10 months, the couple reunited, primarily for the sake of their children. However, the reconciliation was short-lived, and they separated again after just four months. The official divorce occurred in 1975. In the custody arrangement, She gained custody of their daughter, Mary Rose Donahue, while Phil retained custody of their four sons. The couple had been married for 17 years.

The divorce, Phil Donahue moved on with his life and married American actress Marlo Thomas on May 21, 1980, residing in Manhattan, USA. While the couple did not have children together, Marlo became the stepmother to Phil’s five kids. In May 2020, Marlo celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, sharing a picture on her official Instagram account with husband Phil.

Phil Donahue with wife Marlo Thomas

Is Marge Cooney still alive or dead?

Marge Cooney passed away on Friday, February 2, 2018, at Brandywine at Wall. A devoted parishioner of St. Mark’s Church in Sea Girt, she was an active member of the Spring Lake Golf Club. Marge contributed to her community by volunteering with St. Joan of Arc Church in Boca Raton, FL.

The Margaret Cooney Obituary marked her departure. Sadly, her youngest son James, also known as Jim, passed away at the age of 51 in April 2014, succumbing to an aortic aneurysm. Jim a resident of Honolulu, was a practicing lawyer.

Interesting Facts

  • Not a public figure, Marge Cooney led a private life.
  • Despite her ex-husband’s estimated net worth of $150 million, she likely received a substantial alimony after their divorce.
  • Introduced to Phil by her brother Jim Cooney, who befriended Phil through theater connections.
  • Married Phil in February 1958 at San Felipe de Neri, New Mexico, one of the oldest cathedrals in the US.
  • Maintained a low profile throughout her life.
  • Phil and his second wife, Marlo, marked their 40th anniversary in 2020 by releasing a book titled ‘What Makes a Marriage Last.

FAQs

Who is Marge Cooney?

Marge Cooney is known as the ex-wife of Phil Donahue, a prominent television personality. She was part of Phil Donahue’s life and family.

How many children did Marge Cooney have?

Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue had five children together: four sons – Michael, Kevin, Daniel, and James (Jim), and one daughter, Mary Rose.

What was Marge Cooney’s age at the time of her death?

The exact age of Marge Cooney is not confirmed, as her date of birth is unknown. She passed away on February 2, 2018.

Who was Marge Cooney’s husband?

Marge Cooney was married to Phil Donahue. They tied the knot on February 1, 1958, and their marriage lasted until 1975.

Did Marge Cooney have a career in the limelight?

No, Marge Cooney lived a private life and was not involved in showbiz. She maintained a low profile away from the public eye.

How did Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue meet?

Marge’s brother, Jim Cooney, introduced her to Phil Donahue. Jim and Phil became friends through theater connections.

 Final Thoughts

The intriguing life of Marge Cooney, recognized as Phil Donahue’s ex-wife. Together, they raised five children, yet her exact age remains a mystery. Marge chose a path away from the public eye maintaining a quiet career. The marriage to Phil spanned from 1958 to 1975 marking both joyful and challenging times.

Marge Cooney’s departure on February 2, 2018, added a poignant chapter to her narrative. Despite the union’s end, she maintained a sense of privacy, allowing few details to emerge. 

Her legacy extends beyond familial ties, reaching into the realms of mystery that surround her life. Delve into the enigmatic journey of Marge Cooney, exploring the lesser-known facets of her personal and professional history. Uncover the connections experiences and lasting impressions she left behind.

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