Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s life story is one of strength, elegance, and personal resilience. While most know her as the former wife of NFL legend Jerry Rice, her life encompasses far more than a high-profile marriage. From a southern upbringing in Mississippi to enduring a medical crisis that changed her path forever, Jacqueline’s life is filled with compelling moments of triumph, heartbreak, and quiet personal evolution.
This article delves into the many dimensions of Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell—her background, career, personal trials, marriage to one of football’s greatest players, and her legacy as a mother and entrepreneur.
Early Life and Background
Born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi, Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell came from a tight-knit, supportive family. Her father, affectionately known as “Coach Mitchell,” was a respected figure in the community, while her mother, Gloria Campbell, remarried later in life.
Growing up in the American South, Jacqueline had a strong cultural foundation and was recognized early for her charisma and grace. In 1984, she was crowned Miss Black Greenville Teen, a testament to her popularity and confidence during her high school years. Her academic life included attending Greenville High School, followed by further education at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Relationship with Jerry Rice
Jacqueline met Jerry Rice when he was a college athlete and she was still in high school. Their relationship blossomed into a serious commitment that led to marriage on September 8, 1987. At the time, Rice was ascending the ranks in football, eventually becoming a Hall of Famer known as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history.
Together, Jacqueline and Jerry formed one of sports’ most admired couples, admired not only for their good looks and public appearances but also for their apparent devotion to family.
Children
The couple had three children:
-
Jacqui Bonet Rice (b. 1987)
-
Jerry Rice Jr. (b. 1991), who followed in his father’s footsteps with a brief football career
-
Jada Symone Rice (b. 1996)
Jacqueline was actively involved in her children’s lives, often spotted at their sporting events and family functions.
Health Crisis: A Life-Changing Moment
In 1996, after the birth of her third child, Jacqueline suffered a massive hemorrhage that resulted in her falling into a coma for three months. The incident was life-threatening, and for a time, her survival was uncertain.
Upon awakening from the coma, Jacqueline was wheelchair-bound and faced the long, painful journey of physical rehabilitation. It took nearly three years before she could walk unassisted again. This traumatic experience not only shaped her personal resilience but also placed an emotional strain on her marriage to Jerry.
Divorce from Jerry Rice
By the early 2000s, rumors of marital issues began surfacing. The final straw was Jerry’s extramarital affair with Djakarta Edwards, with whom he fathered a child named Brenden Rice. The revelation shattered the public image of their union, and Jacqueline filed for divorce in 2007.
The divorce was finalized in 2009. While she reportedly did not receive alimony, she was granted a portion of shared assets. Despite the end of her marriage, Jacqueline remained dignified, avoiding public drama and prioritizing the well-being of her children.
Life After Divorce
Post-divorce, Jacqueline chose a quieter life, focusing on recovery, family, and her personal interests. In 2023, she launched Pet Gear Elite, an online store specializing in pet supplies. The brand reflects her love for animals and commitment to quality, ethical products.
Jacqueline has also remained involved in her children’s lives, especially supporting her son Jerry Jr.’s brief football career and her daughter’s various ventures.
Career and Public Presence
Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses, Jacqueline did not seek fame or media attention post-divorce. Instead, she leaned into entrepreneurship and community involvement. Her company Pet Gear Elite has received positive attention for its innovative products and charitable initiatives supporting animal shelters.
She has made select public appearances at charity events and sports functions but generally keeps a low profile, preserving her privacy and dignity.
Did Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Die?
As of 2025, Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell is alive. Online searches for “how did Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell die” likely stem from confusion surrounding her health issues in the late 1990s. Though her three-month coma and long recovery sparked concern, she successfully recovered and continues to thrive.
Her ability to overcome such an ordeal and remain an engaged mother and entrepreneur is a testament to her strength and spirit.
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Net Worth
Jacqueline’s exact net worth is not publicly confirmed, but estimates suggest it may fall in the low to mid-seven figures, based on her divorce settlement and business endeavors. While she did not receive traditional alimony, her portion of marital assets and entrepreneurial income likely contribute to a comfortable lifestyle.
By comparison, Jerry Rice is estimated to have a net worth of $50 million, which would have influenced the asset division during their divorce.
Overview Chart: Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell |
| Date of Birth | April 4, 1964 |
| Place of Birth | Starkville, Mississippi, USA |
| Age (as of 2025) | 61 |
| Ex-Spouse | Jerry Rice (m. 1987–div. 2009) |
| Children | Jaqui, Jerry Jr., Jada |
| Career | Entrepreneur (Founder of Pet Gear Elite) |
| Major Health Event | 3-month coma (1996), full recovery |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1M–$5M (unconfirmed) |
| Current Status | Alive, private life |
Legacy and Public Image
Though no longer in the public spotlight like during her marriage to Jerry Rice, Jacqueline has created a legacy of resilience. She has been a survivor, a mother, and a successful entrepreneur. Her quiet strength stands in contrast to the often sensationalized world of celebrity relationships.
She is admired for maintaining her grace under pressure, avoiding public spats, and raising three children in the aftermath of a very public divorce.
Conclusion
Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s story deserves more attention—not as Jerry Rice’s ex-wife, but as a woman who endured great personal and physical trials, and emerged stronger. Her grace, poise, and quiet impact on her family and business world speak volumes.
From surviving a near-death health scare to moving on from a high-profile marriage, Jacqueline has crafted a life on her own terms. In a world that often measures women by their relationships, she is a shining example of independence and quiet strength.
This article is published on Mating Press to celebrate individuals who embody resilience, dignity, and personal growth.
