Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, widely recognized as the former wife of NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, has a life story that intertwines love, adversity, motherhood, and quiet resilience. While she has mostly stayed out of the media limelight, her influence and presence were deeply felt during Jerry Rice’s rise to NFL superstardom. Her journey—from her early life in Mississippi to her challenging health battle and the role she played in her family’s life—provides a compelling portrait of a woman who stood by greatness while enduring her own personal battles.
Biography Overview Chart
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell |
| Date of Birth | April 4, 1964 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 61 years |
| Place of Birth | Starkville, Mississippi |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Jerry Rice, 1987–2009) |
| Children | Jaqui Bonet, Jerry Jr., Jada Symone |
| Profession | Entrepreneur |
| Notable Incident | 3-month coma post childbirth in 1996 |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $0.5M – $5M |
| Current Status | Living privately, rarely in public view |
Who is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell?
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, also affectionately called Jackie, was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi. As of 2025, she is 61 years old. Though not a celebrity in her own right, she gained national attention due to her marriage to Jerry Rice, the legendary wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers.
But Jacqueline is more than just a former footballer’s wife. She is an entrepreneur, a mother of three, and a woman who fought for her life in a near-death health crisis. Her story is one of loyalty, resilience, and a quiet strength often overlooked in the world of fame.
Life Before Fame
Born and raised in Mississippi, Jacqueline grew up in a grounded, supportive environment. While detailed accounts of her early education and family background remain private, those close to her describe her as intelligent, ambitious, and loving. She later attended college, where she crossed paths with Jerry Rice—then a rising football player from Mississippi Valley State University.
The couple began dating in the early 1980s, a time when Jerry Rice’s career was just taking shape. Their relationship blossomed, and Jacqueline provided crucial emotional support during the early and uncertain stages of Rice’s professional football journey.
Marriage to Jerry Rice
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice were married on September 8, 1987. Their wedding symbolized a union of two people who had grown together, through both personal and professional evolution. At the time of their marriage, Jerry Rice had already started to dominate in the NFL, playing for the San Francisco 49ers.
Throughout their marriage, Jacqueline was a loyal wife and mother, often described as the glue that kept the family stable amidst the pressures of stardom. She managed their household while Jerry traveled extensively and focused on his career. Despite living in the shadow of one of football’s greatest players, Jacqueline maintained a graceful presence and stayed away from the media frenzy.
Children: The Rice Legacy
Together, Jacqueline and Jerry Rice have three children:
1. Jaqui Bonet Rice
Born on June 7, 1987, Jaqui Bonet Rice is the eldest of the Rice siblings. She has largely lived a private life, occasionally appearing in public with her family.
2. Jerry Rice Jr.
Born on July 27, 1991, Jerry Rice Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps and played college football for UCLA and later at UNLV. Though he didn’t reach the same level of NFL stardom, he has carried on the family’s sports legacy and works in media and motivational speaking.
3. Jada Symone Rice
Born on May 16, 1996, Jada Symone Rice is the youngest of the three. Like her siblings, Jada keeps a low profile but has dabbled in entertainment and modeling.
Jacqueline played a pivotal role in raising all three children, especially during the years Jerry was on the road for games, training camps, and media events.
Jacqueline’s Health Crisis
One of the most significant events in Jacqueline’s life occurred after the birth of Jada in 1996. She experienced life-threatening complications that led to severe blood loss. Jacqueline went into a coma for three months—an experience that deeply affected her family and ultimately changed the course of her marriage.
Jerry Rice has publicly shared how traumatic the experience was and how it altered their relationship dynamic. He remained by Jacqueline’s side throughout the ordeal, though the scars it left behind may have contributed to their eventual separation.
Jacqueline’s survival after such a devastating health crisis speaks volumes about her inner strength and determination. She made a full recovery and continued to raise her children while staying away from media attention.
Divorce and Life After Jerry Rice
In 2007, after 20 years of marriage, Jacqueline and Jerry Rice separated. Their divorce was finalized in 2009. The split was amicable but emotional, especially given their long history and shared life experiences.
Post-divorce, Jacqueline opted to live a quiet life, far from the public spotlight. While Jerry moved on and began a relationship with Latisha Pelayo (whom he married in 2019), Jacqueline remained relatively private. There are unverified reports that she has a new partner, but she has not made any public appearances or statements regarding her personal life post-divorce.
Career and Net Worth
Jacqueline has often been described as an entrepreneur, although the specifics of her business ventures remain unclear. Some reports suggest she may have had investments in health and wellness sectors, while others hint at quiet ownership in lifestyle brands. However, no confirmed business records or public statements support these claims.
Estimated Net Worth:
Estimates of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s net worth range between $500,000 to $5 million, primarily stemming from the divorce settlement with Jerry Rice and her quiet entrepreneurial efforts. It’s important to note that these figures are speculative and not officially disclosed.
Death Rumors: Is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Still Alive?
There have been some internet rumors and confusion about Jacqueline’s death, mostly due to her extended absence from public view. However, as of 2025, Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell is alive. Her near-death experience in 1996 during childbirth likely fueled some of these rumors, but no official or verified reports confirm her passing.
Public Appearances and Family Connection
While Jacqueline avoids public life, she occasionally appears in family photos shared by her children, especially Jerry Rice Jr. These rare glimpses reflect her enduring bond with her children and indicate she continues to play a motherly and supportive role behind the scenes.
Legacy and Influence
Jacqueline’s legacy is subtle yet powerful. She supported Jerry Rice through the heights of his football career, survived a devastating health crisis, raised three grounded children, and continues to live a life defined by privacy and dignity. Her story is a testament to quiet resilience and strength behind the scenes—a narrative often overlooked in celebrity culture.
Final Thoughts
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell may not be a household name, but her role in the life of NFL legend Jerry Rice and her remarkable resilience make her story worth telling. She represents the unsung heroes in the world of fame—those who support, endure, and uplift without the spotlight.
From a quiet life in Mississippi to a near-death experience and divorce from one of football’s greatest players, Jacqueline’s life exemplifies strength, courage, and grace. As she continues to live away from public scrutiny, her legacy remains tied to her children and the role she played in supporting greatness from the shadows.
This article is published by Movies Mod Celebrity