Most people know Jerry Rice, the NFL legend. But not many know about Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, the woman who stood beside him for more than 20 years. She was his first wife — and her story is just as powerful as his.
Jacqueline lived through big moments. She raised a family, survived a life-threatening health crisis, and walked away from a painful divorce with strength and grace. She didn’t chase fame. She chose peace, purpose, and her family.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at her life. We’ll talk about where she came from, how she met Jerry, their love story, the coma that nearly took her life, and what she’s doing today. Let’s start from the beginning.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Quick Bio
| Full Name | Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell |
| Date of Birth | April 4, 1964 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 62 years old |
| Birthplace | Starkville, Mississippi, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Education | University of Southern Mississippi |
| High School | Greenville High School |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Jerry Rice (m. 1987 – d. 2009) |
| Children | Jaqui, Jerry Jr., Jada |
| Profession | Entrepreneur |
| Business Name | Pet Gear Elite |
| Net Worth | Believed to be in millions |
| Social Media | Not active |
| Current Life | Lives privately, runs pet business |
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Early Life
Jacqueline was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi. She grew up in a small Southern town with big dreams. Her parents separated when she was young, and she was mostly raised by her mother, Gloria Campbell.
Her father, known as Coach Mitchell, was a respected coach at Greenville High School. That’s also where Jacqueline went to school. Even as a teen, she stood out. She was a cheerleader and took part in local beauty pageants.
In 1984, she won Miss Black Greenville Teen, a proud moment that showed how confident and bright she was. After high school, she went on to study at the University of Southern Mississippi. She valued education and worked hard to build her own path.
How Jacqueline Met Jerry Rice
Jacqueline’s life changed in 1985. She was just 17 years old, finishing high school. Jerry Rice was 22, already becoming a big name in college football at Mississippi Valley State University.
One day, Jacqueline asked Jerry for his autograph. But instead of just signing his name, Jerry wrote a sweet note and told her she was beautiful. That small moment turned into something big.
They started dating soon after. Even though Jerry’s football career was taking off, he made time for Jacqueline. Their bond grew strong over the years, and after dating for four years, Jerry asked her to marry him.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice’s Wedding
Jacqueline and Jerry got married on September 8, 1987. It was a beautiful wedding filled with family, friends, and lots of love. That day marked the beginning of a new chapter in both of their lives.
At the time, Jerry had just joined the San Francisco 49ers and was starting his journey as one of the greatest players in NFL history. But behind that success, Jacqueline was always there — quietly cheering him on and standing by his side.
She wasn’t just his wife. She was his emotional anchor. She helped him through pressure, fame, and long seasons away from home. While Jerry caught touchdowns on TV, Jacqueline made sure their home and family stayed strong.
Life as Jerry Rice’s Wife
Being the wife of an NFL star isn’t easy. While Jerry was often on the road or in the spotlight, Jacqueline handled everything at home. She showed up at red carpet events, awards shows, and fundraisers — always smiling, always graceful.
But behind the glamour, it was a tough life. Long training camps. Constant media attention. Rumors. Stress. Still, Jacqueline stayed calm. She didn’t chase the spotlight. She focused on her family and supported Jerry quietly and faithfully.
Many people say she was the one who kept Jerry grounded. While he was making headlines, Jacqueline was making sure their children were safe, loved, and raised with values.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Children
Jacqueline and Jerry had three children together — each one a blessing.
Their first child, Jaqui Bonet Rice, was born in 1987. She later attended Georgetown University and became a strong, smart businesswoman. Today, she runs G.O.A.T. Fuel, a popular energy drink company, alongside her dad and her husband.
Their second child, Jerry Rice Jr., was born in 1991. He followed his dad’s footsteps and played football at UCLA and UNLV. He even got a shot at the NFL before switching to a career in real estate.
Their youngest daughter, Jada Symone Rice, was born in 1996. She studied psychology at the University of San Francisco and now works in the insurance industry. She’s very close to her mom and often posts loving messages about Jacqueline on social media.
Jacqueline has always been a caring, full-time mom. She raised her kids with patience and love — even when life was far from easy.
The Day Everything Changed, Her Near-Death Experience
In 1996, when Jacqueline gave birth to baby Jada, something went very wrong.
After the delivery, Jacqueline began to bleed heavily. It wasn’t just a little. It was dangerous. Doctors rushed her into surgery, trying to stop the bleeding. Her husband Jerry thought it would be a simple procedure — but it wasn’t.
Jacqueline lost so much blood that she slipped into a coma. She stayed in that coma for three long months.
Jerry was devastated. He stayed at the hospital every day. He even had his own room there, just to be near her. He watched for any sign of movement. He prayed. He waited.
When Jacqueline finally opened her eyes, Jerry said her smile lit up the room. It was a moment of pure relief. But this was only the start of her long road to recovery.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Fight to Recover
Waking up from a coma is just the beginning. Jacqueline couldn’t feel her legs. She had lost control of her body. For the first year, she had to use a wheelchair. Everything was hard — walking, standing, even moving.
But Jacqueline didn’t give up. Slowly, she worked her way forward. From a wheelchair to a walker. Then from crutches to a cane. Little by little, she began to walk again.
It took three full years of physical therapy, pain, and patience. But she did it. She never lost hope. She never gave up on herself or her family.
Her story during this time shows something very clear: Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell is a fighter.
The Divorce, Why Jacqueline Left Jerry Rice
After so many years together, things sadly changed for Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice. Even after going through so much as a couple — including her coma — their marriage began to fall apart in the 2000s.
In 2007, Jacqueline filed for divorce. The reason? Jerry had been unfaithful. One of his affairs led to a child with another woman, Djakarta Edwards. Their son, Brenden Rice, was born in 2002. This news shocked many fans and hurt Jacqueline deeply.
Even though the truth was painful, Jacqueline stayed calm. She didn’t go to the media. She focused on protecting her kids and keeping the peace. Their divorce was finalized in 2009, ending over 20 years of marriage.
Life After the Divorce
After the divorce, Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell did something rare — she disappeared from the spotlight. No interviews. No big drama. She just quietly moved on and focused on healing.
She stayed busy being a full-time mom and building a new life. She and Jerry remained respectful for the sake of their children. They still showed up for graduations, birthdays, and family events.
Jacqueline chose peace. She chose strength. And she did it with quiet dignity, showing others that you can rebuild your life after heartbreak.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Business, Pet Gear Elite
In 2023, Jacqueline started something new — her own business. It’s called Pet Gear Elite, an online store that sells fun and useful pet supplies. But this wasn’t just about making money — it was something she built out of love.
Jacqueline has six pets at home. Their names are adorable: Royalty, King Louis, Bleu I.V., Elle V., QoeQoe, and ReignBeaux. They are like her second family. Her love for animals gave her the idea to start her own brand.
Even better, Jacqueline gives back. Part of her earnings go to rescue groups that help abused and homeless animals. Through her business, she’s helping others — one paw at a time.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Net Worth and Lifestyle
Jacqueline has never talked about her money. But most people believe she became a multi-millionaire after her divorce from Jerry Rice. Instead of monthly payments, she received a fair share of his wealth.
Jerry Rice is worth about $50 million. So it’s safe to say Jacqueline was able to start over comfortably. On top of that, her business also brings in income.
Still, she doesn’t live a flashy life. She stays private. She keeps her focus on family, pets, and doing what feels right. That’s the kind of success that really matters.
Where Is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Now?
As of 2026, Jacqueline lives a quiet and peaceful life somewhere in the U.S. She’s not on social media, and she rarely appears in public. But she’s still close with her children, and they sometimes share sweet posts about her on special days.
Her daughter Jaqui shared a lovely Mother’s Day video in 2023. Her son Jerry Jr. has posted photos with her at family events too. These moments show how loved she still is.
Jacqueline is now focused on things that bring her joy — her pets, her children, and her business. After everything she went through, she’s finally living life on her own terms.
Final Thoughts
The story of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, Jerry Rice’s ex-wife, is one of quiet strength. She went through heartbreak, nearly died after childbirth, faced betrayal, and still came back stronger.
She never tried to become famous. She never wanted attention. Instead, she stayed focused on what matters — love, family, and doing good. Her life is proof that you don’t need the spotlight to shine.
Even now, in 2026, many people admire Jacqueline. She reminds us that no matter what life throws at you, you can keep going. You can rise again.
And that’s what makes her story so powerful.
(FAQs)
How much money does Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell have now?
She is likely worth a few million dollars. She got money after her divorce from Jerry Rice and now runs her own pet business.
How old is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and when is her birthday?
She was born on April 4, 1964, so she is 62 years old in 2026.
Does Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell use Instagram?
She is not on Instagram or any other social media. She keeps her life very private.
Why did Jacqueline divorce Jerry Rice?
She left Jerry in 2007 after finding out he cheated and had a child with another woman. Their divorce ended in 2009.
Where is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell living now?
She lives a quiet and peaceful life in the USA. She runs her pet store and stays away from the spotlight.
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