Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell is best known as the former wife of Jerry Rice, a legendary wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). Her life, however, extends far beyond her marriage to one of the greatest football players in history. From overcoming life-threatening health challenges to raising children in the public eye, Jacqueline’s story is one of resilience, transition, and personal growth.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Early Life and Background
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi. Growing up in Mississippi, she attended Greenville High School, where she was known for her academic and extracurricular achievements. As a teenager, Jacqueline was involved in various community activities, including beauty pageants, and reportedly won the title of Miss Black Greenville Teen in 1984. This was just one of many early signs of her confidence and poise.
She later went on to attend the University of Southern Mississippi (or possibly the University of Mississippi, depending on the source), where she furthered her education and eventually met Jerry Rice. The two crossed paths in 1985 when she was just 17 years old, and Jerry, who was a few years older, was playing college football at Mississippi Valley State University. Their connection was immediate, and their relationship soon blossomed.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Marriage to Jerry Rice
In 1987, Jacqueline married Jerry Rice, and the couple became one of the most famous duos in the sports world. They married on September 8, 1987, in a private ceremony, and together, they had three children:
- Jaqui Bonet Rice (born 1987)
- Jerry Rice Jr. (born 1991)
- Jada Rice (born May 16, 1996)
For over two decades, Jacqueline supported Jerry through his illustrious NFL career, which included stints with the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and Seattle Seahawks. Despite being in the public eye due to Jerry’s fame, Jacqueline maintained a relatively private life, focusing on raising their children and supporting her husband’s career.
Health Crisis and Survival
A pivotal moment in Jacqueline’s life came shortly after the birth of their third child, Jada. Following childbirth, Jacqueline experienced severe complications and hemorrhaging, which led to a life-threatening situation. She was placed in a coma for approximately three months, a devastating ordeal for both her and her family.
During her time in the coma, Jerry Rice stayed by her side, providing emotional support. After waking up, Jacqueline faced significant physical challenges, including mobility issues. She had to regain strength and relearn how to walk. Over time, however, Jacqueline made a remarkable recovery, though the incident left an indelible mark on her life. This health crisis, which occurred in the late 1990s, changed her perspective on life and deepened her resolve to focus on her family and well-being.
Divorce and Life After Jerry Rice
After over two decades of marriage, Jacqueline and Jerry Rice faced difficulties that eventually led to their separation in 2007 and their divorce in 2009. The reasons for their divorce were multifaceted, including Jerry’s infidelity, which came to light when he fathered a child, Brenden Rice, with another woman during their marriage. This betrayal contributed to the end of their relationship, and the couple officially finalized their divorce in December 2009.
Despite the separation, Jacqueline has remained a dedicated mother to their three children. She and Jerry continued to co-parent and raise their children, with Jacqueline stepping out of the public spotlight to focus on her family and personal growth. In the years following the divorce, Jacqueline reportedly started engaging in entrepreneurial endeavors, though her specific business activities have remained relatively private.
Children of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell
Jacqueline and Jerry Rice’s three children, Jaqui Bonet Rice, Jerry Rice Jr., and Jada Rice, have each carved out their own paths in life.
- Jaqui Bonet Rice has pursued an entrepreneurial career and is actively involved in business ventures.
- Jerry Rice Jr., following in his father’s footsteps, has played football at the collegiate level and worked in business.
- Jada Rice, the youngest, has been involved in social media and business, following a more private career path, but she continues to share moments of her life with her family.
Jacqueline’s children have largely been raised out of the public eye, but they occasionally make appearances in family media, where they often show a close-knit relationship despite the public challenges their parents faced.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Net Worth and Career
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell net worth is not publicly disclosed, but many estimate that she likely accumulated substantial assets from her divorce settlement with Jerry Rice. Her ex-husband, a Hall of Fame NFL player, has a net worth that is estimated to be around $50 million. Jacqueline is believed to have a net worth in the millions, though specific figures vary across sources.
Since her divorce, Jacqueline has maintained a lower public profile, though she is thought to be involved in business ventures, potentially in the online retail or service industry. However, details about her professional endeavors are not extensively available, and Jacqueline has chosen to keep her personal life out of the spotlight for the most part.
Current Status
As of today, Jacqueline is not actively involved in the media or public events, which reflects her preference for privacy after the divorce. She occasionally makes appearances on social media through her children, particularly through posts by Jada Rice. Jacqueline’s social media presence is minimal, and she remains largely out of the public eye.
It is important to note that there have been rumors regarding Jacqueline’s health, but no credible sources confirm any significant health issues beyond her previous health scare after childbirth.
Conclusion
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s life story goes far beyond being the ex-wife of a famous football player. Her resilience in the face of health challenges, her dedication to her children, and her journey through divorce all serve as important aspects of her identity. While she may no longer be in the public spotlight, her legacy is reflected in the lives of her children and the experiences she overcame.
Through the highs and lows of her life, Jacqueline has remained an influential figure in her own right—facing adversity with strength, making difficult choices, and prioritizing her family’s well-being above all else. She continues to live a relatively private life, but her story remains an inspiring one for those who have witnessed her journey.
