Last updated on: July 17, 2025
Phyllis D’Onofrio was the mother of actor Vincent D’Onofrio. She had a stern yet honest life. She brought up her children with love, care, and hard work. Even during difficult times, she remained strong.
She is not only remembered as a mother but as a strong woman who never lost hope. Her life is about strength, family, and profound love.
Quick Facts About Phyllis D’Onofrio
| Full Name | Phyllis Ann Minicola D’Onofrio |
| Birthdate | 1941 |
| Occupation | Waitress, Restaurant Manager |
| Husband | Gennaro D’Onofrio (divorced), George Meyer (remarried) |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | 85 years old |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Leila George D’Onofrio, Elias Gene D’Onofrio, Luka D’Onofrio, Hakan D’Onofrio |
| Children | Antoinette D’Onofrio, Elizabeth D’Onofrio (Daughters), Vincent D’Onofrio (Son) |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life
Phyllis was born Phyllis Ann Minicola in Brooklyn, New York. She then spent some early life in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her family had origins there. Indeed, her grandparents opened the first Italian restaurant in Hawaii.
She was Italian-American proud. Although she did not attend college, she learned from living and always put in effort at work.
Career and Work
Phyllis was a waitress, then eventually a restaurant manager. These were not menial tasks, but she performed them well. She often held two jobs simultaneously to raise her children.
She was not famous or wealthy, but she was resilient. Her children observed her work ethic and learned never to quit.
Family Life
Phyllis married Gennaro “Gene” D’Onofrio. He was an interior decorator by profession and enjoyed amateur theatre. They had three children:
- Antoinette D’Onofrio (born 1956)
- Elizabeth D’Onofrio (born 1957), who became an acting coach and actress
- Vincent D’Onofrio (born 1959), the actor who is well known
Phyllis and Gene later divorced. She then married George Meyer and became stepmother to his children.
A Strong Mother
After her initial marriage failed, Phyllis relocated to Hialeah, Florida. Things were not as easy. She had to do everything for her kids alone. Nevertheless, she remained steadfast.
Vincent described his mother as armor. She sheltered them, worked hard, and never lost hope. She was honest, loving, and always present for her children.
Vincent’s Love for His Mother
Vincent D’Onofrio frequently talked about how much he admired his mother. He quoted that she was the most authentic person he had ever met. In one of his posts, he mentioned, “She never wavered, not once.”
He also mentioned that she was bubbling with happiness, even when times were tough. Her character instilled him with the strength to become who he is today.
READ ALSO: Vincent D’Onofrio Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Her Legacy
Phyllis D’Onofrio had a large legacy. She had three tough children. She had grandchildren as well, including:
- Elias Gene D’Onofrio
- Luka D’Onofrio
- Leila George D’Onofrio, who is also an actress
She instilled honesty, courage, and kindness in her family.
Her Passing
Phyllis died on July 14, 2024, at the age of 83. Her son Vincent announced her death with a touching tribute on social media. He spoke about her love, bravery, and how much she will be missed.
