Introduction: Why Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Story Matters
When people hear the name Jerry Rice, they think of touchdowns, records, and one of the greatest careers in NFL history. But behind the headlines, there is another story that deserves to be told — the story of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, Jerry Rice’s former wife. While many know her as the woman who stood by Rice during his glory years, Jacqueline’s own journey is marked by resilience, survival, and reinvention. From surviving a life-threatening health crisis to building her own path after divorce, Jacqueline’s life is as inspiring as it is powerful. Her story shows us what it means to face unimaginable challenges and still rise stronger.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Profile Summary
Here is a quick look at Jacqueline’s most important details:
Full Name: Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell
Date Of Birth: April 4, 1964
Age: 61 (as of 2025)
Birthplace: Starkville, Mississippi, United States
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: African-American
Parents: Coach Mitchell (father), Gloria Campbell (mother)
Education: Greenville High School, University of Southern Mississippi
Marital Status: Divorced
Ex-Husband: Jerry Rice (married 1987 – divorced 2009)
Children: Jaqui Bonet Rice, Jerry Rice Jr., Jada Symone Rice
Profession: Entrepreneur, Business Owner (Founder of Pet Gear Elite)
Religion: Christianity
Early Life And Childhood In Mississippi
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi. Her childhood was shaped by both challenges and opportunities. She was the daughter of Coach Mitchell, a respected high school coach, and Gloria Campbell, who later remarried after separating from Jacqueline’s father. Growing up in a single-parent household was not always easy, but Jacqueline developed a close bond with her mother, who gave her a strong sense of resilience and independence.
She attended Greenville High School, where her talents quickly shone through. Jacqueline was active in school activities, particularly cheerleading, and in 1984 she won the Miss Black Greenville Teen pageant, a title that highlighted her confidence and presence. After graduating, she pursued higher education at the University of Southern Mississippi. Even in her younger years, she displayed the determination and grace that would later define her life.
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Meeting Jerry Rice: A Love Story In The Making
The year 1985 marked a turning point in Jacqueline’s life. As a high school senior, she met Jerry Rice, who was already beginning to make a name for himself as a football star at Mississippi Valley State University. Their age difference — Jerry was 22, while Jacqueline was just 17 — did not stop the two from forming a strong connection.
Their relationship grew quickly, fueled by shared dreams and youthful optimism. As Jerry’s career skyrocketed toward the NFL, Jacqueline remained by his side, offering support through the ups and downs of professional sports. After four years of dating, Jerry proposed, and the two were married on September 8, 1987, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends. For many, they seemed like the perfect couple — young, ambitious, and ready to take on the world together.
Married Life With NFL Legend Jerry Rice
Being married to one of the most celebrated athletes in football history was both exciting and demanding. As Jerry Rice built a legendary career with the San Francisco 49ers, Jacqueline embraced the role of wife and mother, balancing the demands of public life with the responsibilities of family.
Together, they attended charity events and public functions, becoming a well-known couple in the sports world. One example of their shared efforts was their participation in the March of Dimes event in 1994, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community. Despite the pressures of fame and the intensity of life in the spotlight, Jacqueline worked hard to maintain stability at home, raising their children while supporting Jerry through his NFL journey.
Jacqueline And Jerry’s Children
Family was at the heart of Jacqueline’s life. She and Jerry welcomed three children: Jaqui Bonet Rice, Jerry Rice Jr., and Jada Symone Rice. Each child added joy and meaning to their marriage. Jerry Rice Jr. even followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing football, while Jaqui and Jada have each built their own identities away from the glare of professional sports.
Jacqueline devoted herself to motherhood, ensuring her children grew up with love and support despite the demands of Jerry’s career. Later, when Jerry’s affair came to light, the family dynamic shifted, but Jacqueline remained focused on protecting her children’s well-being above all else.
The Health Crisis: Jacqueline’s Coma After Childbirth
One of the most defining chapters of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s life came after the birth of her third child, Jada. What should have been a joyful moment turned into a near tragedy. Shortly after delivery, Jacqueline experienced severe hemorrhaging. Despite emergency surgery, the complications became life-threatening, and she slipped into a coma that lasted three long months.
Her recovery was grueling. When she woke, she discovered she had lost all feeling in her legs and had to use a wheelchair for the first year. Over the next three years, she slowly regained her mobility, progressing from wheelchair to walker, then crutches, and finally a cane before she could walk again. This period tested her strength like never before. Yet through sheer determination, faith, and family support, she overcame the odds. Her survival and recovery remain a powerful part of her inspiring story.
Separation And Divorce From Jerry Rice
After nearly two decades of marriage, Jacqueline and Jerry Rice separated in 2007, and their divorce was finalized in 2009. The split followed Jerry’s extramarital relationship with a woman named Djakarta Edwards, which resulted in the birth of another son, Brenden Rice. During the divorce proceedings, Jerry admitted paternity, and the scandal became widely reported.
While the revelation was painful, Jacqueline chose to focus on moving forward rather than dwelling on the past. She did not receive alimony but did secure a fair share of the couple’s assets. More importantly, both she and Jerry committed to co-parenting their children, ensuring they grew up with love and stability despite the end of the marriage.
Life After Divorce: Rebuilding And Finding Purpose
Life after divorce presented Jacqueline with a chance to rediscover herself. She kept a low public profile, choosing to focus on family and personal growth rather than media attention. Through it all, she emphasized the importance of strength, faith, and maintaining positive energy for her children.
Jacqueline’s story after divorce is one of rebuilding. She refused to let the end of her marriage define her, instead choosing to carve out a new chapter based on her passions and values.
Career As An Entrepreneur And Philanthropist
In 2023, Jacqueline stepped into the business world by launching Pet Gear Elite, an online store offering high-quality pet supplies. Her inspiration came from her own love of animals — she has six pets at home named Royalty, King Louis, Bleu I.V, Elle V., QoeQoe, and ReignBeaux.
Beyond running a business, Jacqueline uses Pet Gear Elite as a platform for philanthropy. She supports organizations that rescue and care for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals. This venture not only reflects her entrepreneurial spirit but also her desire to make a difference in the world.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Net Worth
While Jacqueline has not revealed her exact net worth, it is believed that she holds significant wealth, partly due to her divorce settlement and her business ventures. With Jerry Rice’s net worth estimated at around $50 million as of 2025, Jacqueline is thought to have secured millions when they split their assets. Combined with her entrepreneurial success, she has built a comfortable and independent life.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Inspiring Legacy
Jacqueline’s story is one of resilience. From her humble beginnings in Mississippi to her life as the wife of an NFL star, to surviving a near-death health crisis, and finally building a new life after divorce, she has shown remarkable courage. Her ability to recover, reinvent herself, and continue giving back through her business and philanthropy makes her legacy much more than simply being Jerry Rice’s ex-wife.
Her journey teaches us that no matter how difficult life becomes, it is possible to overcome challenges with faith, determination, and grace.
Final Thoughts
The story of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell is not one of fame or records, but of quiet strength and perseverance. She faced life-threatening health challenges, navigated the difficulties of a high-profile marriage and divorce, and still managed to rebuild her life with dignity and purpose. Today, as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, she proves that resilience and reinvention are possible no matter what life throws your way. Jacqueline’s journey is a reminder that true inspiration often comes not from those who shine on the field but from those who find the strength to rise when life knocks them down.
FAQs About Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell
Who is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell?
She is an American entrepreneur best known as the ex-wife of NFL legend Jerry Rice. She is also a survivor of a life-threatening health crisis and the founder of Pet Gear Elite.
When was Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell born?
She was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi.
How many children does Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell have?
She has three children with Jerry Rice: Jaqui Bonet Rice, Jerry Rice Jr., and Jada Symone Rice.
Why was Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell in a coma?
She went into a coma for three months after suffering severe hemorrhaging during the birth of her third child, Jada.
When did Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice divorce?
They separated in 2007 and finalized their divorce in 2009.
What does Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell do now?
She is an entrepreneur and the founder of Pet Gear Elite, a pet supply business that also supports animal rescue charities.
What is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is not publicly known, but she is believed to be worth millions after her divorce settlement and entrepreneurial success.
