Phyllis Minkoff is a woman who is often remembered as Maury Povich’s first wife. But there is so much more to her life than that. While her name may be tied to Maury, she has built her own remarkable story, full of personal achievements, family, and quiet strength.
In this article, we’re going to dive into Phyllis Minkoff’s life — from her childhood in Washington, D.C., to her career in communications, her two marriages, and her role as a mother. We’ll also take a look at her current life today and what she’s been up to since stepping away from the public eye.
Let’s begin with her early years.
Phyllis Minkoff Quick Bio
| Full Name | Phyllis Minkoff |
| Date of Birth | February 15, 1941 |
| Age | 85 years old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Hair Color | Grey |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| First Husband | Maury Povich (1962–1979) |
| Second Husband | Phillip Baskin (1980–2005) |
| Children | 4 (Susan, Amy, Shoshana, Janice) |
| Profession | Communications & PR Expert |
| Net Worth | $1 million (estimated) |
| Current Residence | Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
Early Life of Phyllis Minkoff
Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, in Washington, D.C. She grew up in a close-knit Jewish-American family. Her father, Hyman Joseph Minkoff, ran a local liquor store called Acme Liquors, and her mother, Ida Minkoff, was a homemaker who took care of the family.
Phyllis had one sibling, a brother named Larry Minkoff, and they spent their childhood in Washington during a time when the city was growing and changing. Even though the family wasn’t rich or famous, Phyllis’s upbringing in the heart of the nation’s capital played a key role in shaping her strong character.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Education and Early Interests
Though Phyllis hasn’t shared many details about her schooling, it’s clear that she was a smart and curious young woman. From a young age, she showed a deep interest in communication, social issues, and public life.
While most of her peers were not yet thinking about careers, Phyllis was already determined to make a difference in the world. She was the type of person who preferred to work quietly behind the scenes, making things happen and building connections. Little did she know, this would set her up for a long career in communications and public relations.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Career in Communications and PR
Phyllis Minkoff spent much of her adult life working in communications and public relations. Even though she didn’t seek out fame, she became a respected professional in her field. She was known for her ability to clearly communicate messages, build strong relationships, and help people shape their public images.
Throughout her career, Phyllis worked with both private clients and firms, but she always preferred to stay out of the limelight. She didn’t need the attention; instead, she focused on helping others behind the scenes. At a time when many women were expected to stay at home, Phyllis confidently entered a professional role and proved herself in a male-dominated industry.
Her work in communications allowed her to connect with people, influence change, and be a part of important moments in the business and political worlds — all while staying humble and dedicated to her work.
Marriage to Maury Povich
In 1962, Phyllis married Maury Povich, who was just starting his career in news and television. Maury, at the time, was far from the famous TV host he would later become. The two made a strong couple, and together, they had two daughters: Susan Anne Povich and Amy Joyce Povich.
During their marriage, Phyllis stood by Maury as he built his career in broadcasting. As Maury moved into the world of talk shows, Phyllis was there, supporting him as he gained national fame. Their marriage wasn’t glamorous like something out of Hollywood, but it was real. They faced the ups and downs of life, just like any couple.
Even though their marriage didn’t last, it was an important part of Phyllis’s story and helped her develop the resilience and wisdom she would carry with her into the next chapter of her life.
Why Phyllis and Maury Divorced
In 1979, after 17 years together, Phyllis and Maury ended their marriage. The exact reasons for their divorce were never fully shared with the public, but many believe they simply grew apart as their lives changed. Maury’s fame was growing quickly, and Phyllis may have wanted a quieter, more private life.
It’s also worth noting that Phyllis remarried shortly after their divorce, which led some people to wonder if there was more to the story. But both Phyllis and Maury handled their split with respect, and they each moved on to new chapters in their lives.
Though their marriage ended, Phyllis’s journey was far from over. In fact, her next chapter would be just as significant and fulfilling as her time with Maury.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Second Marriage to Phillip Baskin
In 1980, just a year after her divorce from Maury, Phyllis married Phillip Baskin, a Pittsburgh attorney and city councilman. Phillip was not a celebrity, but he was very active in local government and community issues. Together, they built a new life in Pittsburgh, where Phyllis found a new sense of peace and stability.
Phyllis and Phillip’s marriage lasted for 25 years, and they had two daughters together: Shoshana Nudel and Janice Gondelman. Their time together was marked by love and commitment, but sadly, Phillip passed away in 2005 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Through it all, Phyllis stood by his side, showing the same strength and quiet resilience that had defined her life so far.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Role as a Mother
Phyllis was a dedicated mother to her four daughters: Susan Anne, Amy Joyce, Shoshana Nudel, and Janice Gondelman. Her two daughters with Maury grew up to be successful in their own rights — Susan became a lawyer and business owner, while Amy pursued a career in acting.
Her daughters with Phillip led more private lives, staying out of the public eye. Phyllis raised her children with care, teaching them independence and strong values, while making sure they always knew the importance of family.
Her children were a major part of her life and her source of pride. Through all of her career and personal changes, Phyllis always put her family first.
Political and Social Advocacy by Phyllis Minkoff
Even though Phyllis Minkoff kept a low profile for most of her life, she cared deeply about the world around her. She wasn’t afraid to speak up for what she believed in, especially when it came to political and social causes.
Phyllis was an active supporter of women’s rights and a member of the Women’s Liberation Front, a group that fought for gender equality. She was also a strong supporter of Planned Parenthood, an organization that helps women with health care and family planning. In 2016, she publicly backed Hillary Clinton during her presidential campaign. Phyllis also supported politicians like Bernie Sanders and Joe Kennedy III, who stood for causes she cared about.
Phyllis didn’t just talk about change — she took action by donating to nonprofits and getting involved in community projects. Her work behind the scenes was an important part of the change she wanted to see in the world.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Life After Fame
After her second husband, Phillip Baskin, passed away in 2005, Phyllis chose to step away from the spotlight. She moved to Greater Pittsburgh, where she lived a quiet, peaceful life surrounded by family. Phyllis didn’t seek out fame or public attention. She preferred to stay away from the cameras, enjoying her time in private with her children and close friends.
Today, Phyllis is rarely seen in the media. She doesn’t have social media accounts or make public appearances, preferring to stay out of the public eye. But those who know her describe her as kind, warm-hearted, and always willing to lend a helping hand to her community. She continues to live a life of purpose, helping others when she can, but always quietly and humbly.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Net Worth
Phyllis Minkoff is estimated to have a net worth of around $1 million. While she didn’t seek out fame or fortune, she built her wealth through a steady career in public relations and communications. Her work behind the scenes was highly respected, and she didn’t need the attention or media buzz that often comes with high-profile careers.
While Maury Povich’s net worth is far higher, estimated at around $80 million, Phyllis was content living a simpler life. She used her talents and skills to make a good living, focusing on what truly mattered to her — her family and her values.
The Legacy of Phyllis Minkoff Beyond Her Marriage to Maury
Phyllis Minkoff’s legacy isn’t just tied to her marriage to Maury Povich. It’s about the life she built for herself, the values she lived by, and the quiet strength she showed. She may not have been in the public eye as much as Maury or his second wife, Connie Chung, but Phyllis has had a significant impact on the people around her.
Her story shows that success isn’t always about being in the spotlight. Sometimes, the most impactful lives are those that are lived quietly, with dedication to family, kindness, and helping others. Phyllis Minkoff may not have needed fame, but she left a legacy of love, strength, and respect.
Final Thoughts
Phyllis Minkoff’s life story is one of quiet strength, determination, and love. She wasn’t someone who sought fame or public recognition, but her impact was felt in the way she lived her life. From her work in communications and public relations to her role as a mother, advocate, and wife, Phyllis lived a life she could be proud of.
Her story shows us that it’s not about being in the spotlight; it’s about the choices you make, the people you love, and the difference you make in the world, even from behind the scenes. Phyllis Minkoff may have been Maury Povich’s first wife, but she is so much more than that. Her legacy lives on in the lives of her children, the causes she supported, and the quiet strength she showed throughout her life.
(FAQs)
What is Phyllis Minkoff’s net worth?
Phyllis Minkoff has a net worth of $1 million. She made her money through her career in public relations, staying out of the spotlight and living a private life.
What did Phyllis Minkoff look like when she was young?
When Phyllis was young, she was known for her graceful beauty and strong personality. She wasn’t interested in fame but still stood out with her confidence and charm.
How old is Phyllis Minkoff, and when is her birthday?
Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, which makes her 85 years old in 2026.
Is Phyllis Minkoff still alive?
Phyllis Minkoff is still alive and living a quiet life in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, far from the public eye.
What is Phyllis Minkoff’s life like today, and where does she live?
Phyllis lives in Greater Pittsburgh today, enjoying a peaceful and private life. She doesn’t use social media and prefers to stay away from the spotlight, focusing on family and helping her community.
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