What Happened to Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, Jerry Rice’s Ex-Wife?

Have you ever heard the name Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell? Most people know her as the woman who was once married to NFL superstar Jerry Rice. But there’s so much more to her than just being “Jerry Rice’s ex-wife.”

Jacqueline’s life has been filled with love, family, pain, and strength. She helped Jerry rise to fame, raised their kids, and even survived a terrifying health crisis. Today, she lives a quiet life away from the spotlight — but her story still inspires many people in 2026.

In this article, we’ll take a close and simple look at her full journey. From her early days in Mississippi to her life after divorce, you’ll learn what really happened to Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, Jerry Rice’s ex-wife.

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Quick Bio

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Early Life and Family

Jacqueline was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi. She grew up in a small town with big dreams. Her parents split up when she was young, so her mother, Gloria Campbell, raised her. Her father, known as Coach Mitchell, was a respected coach at Greenville High School, the same school Jacqueline attended.

Even as a young girl, Jacqueline was full of energy and charm. She joined the cheerleading team and entered beauty pageants. In 1984, she proudly won the title of Miss Black Greenville Teen — a moment that showed how confident and bright she was even back then.

After high school, she continued her education at the University of Southern Mississippi. Education mattered to her, and she worked hard to make something of her life, even before she met her famous future husband.

How Jacqueline Met Jerry Rice for the First Time

Their love story started in 1985. Jacqueline was just 17 years old and finishing high school. Jerry was 22 and already becoming known for his football talent at Mississippi Valley State University.

One day, Jacqueline asked Jerry for an autograph. Instead of simply signing it, he wrote her a sweet note and told her she was beautiful. That small act of kindness started something special between them.

They began dating soon after, and their bond kept growing stronger — even as Jerry’s football career started taking off.

The Wedding of Jacqueline and Jerry Rice

After four years of dating, Jerry proposed to Jacqueline, and they got married on September 8, 1987. It was a joyful day, filled with love, hope, and big dreams for the future. Family and friends were excited, and everyone believed this would be a forever love story.

Jacqueline became Jerry Rice’s wife just as he was rising to stardom with the San Francisco 49ers. She wasn’t just his wife — she was his support system, his friend, and his biggest fan.

Their wedding marked the start of a new life together — one that would soon be filled with fame, family, and some difficult challenges too.

Life as Jerry Rice’s Wife During His NFL Career

Being married to an NFL legend wasn’t always easy, but Jacqueline handled it with grace. As Jerry broke records and won games, she stayed strong at home. She supported him through wins, losses, travel, and media attention.

Jacqueline appeared beside Jerry at award shows, red carpet events, and charity fundraisers. To the public, they looked like the perfect couple — smiling, polished, and powerful.

But behind the scenes, life wasn’t always simple. Jacqueline had to raise their children, keep the household steady, and deal with the pressures of being married to one of the biggest names in football.

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice’s Children

Jacqueline and Jerry had three children together, and each one became a big part of her life and heart.

• Their first child, Jaqui Bonet, was born in 1987. She later became a smart businesswoman and co-founded the energy drink brand G.O.A.T. Fuel with her father and husband.

• Their son, Jerry Rice Jr., was born in 1991. He followed in his dad’s footsteps and played football professionally for a while. These days, he works in real estate.

• Their youngest child, Jada, was born in 1996. She studied psychology and now works as a senior insurance specialist. She often shares kind and loving messages about her mom online.

Jacqueline always put her kids first. Even during the hardest times, her love for them never wavered. She raised them to be smart, strong, and kind — just like her.

The Health Crisis That Nearly Took Jacqueline’s Life

In 1996, Jacqueline gave birth to her third child, Jada. Everything seemed fine — the baby was healthy, and it looked like another happy moment. But then, something went very wrong.

Jacqueline began to bleed heavily after the delivery. Doctors rushed her into emergency surgery, but things were worse than expected. She lost so much blood that she slipped into a coma — and stayed in that coma for three months.

Jerry, her husband at the time, was devastated. He didn’t leave her side. He even had a small room at the hospital, just to stay close. Every day, he sat by her bed, praying and hoping for a miracle.

Finally, one day, Jacqueline opened her eyes. Jerry later said her smile lit up the whole room. It was a moment he never forgot.

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Long Road to Recovery

Waking up was just the first step. Jacqueline still couldn’t walk. She couldn’t even feel her legs. For the first year, she had to use a wheelchair.

But Jacqueline wasn’t someone who gave up easily. She worked hard every day to heal. First a wheelchair. Then a walker. Then crutches. And finally, a cane.

It took three full years, but she learned how to walk again. Slowly, step by step, she got stronger. Her recovery showed just how powerful and brave she truly is.

Why Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell and Jerry Rice Divorced

After nearly 20 years of marriage, things started to change between Jacqueline and Jerry. In 2007, Jacqueline filed for divorce. Many people were shocked because they seemed like the perfect couple.

But soon, the real reason came out. Jerry had been in a relationship with another woman, Djakarta Edwards. That relationship led to the birth of a child — Brenden Rice, born in 2002. During the divorce trial, Jerry confirmed he was the father.

This was heartbreaking for Jacqueline. The trust was gone, and the marriage couldn’t be saved. Sadly, it wasn’t the only affair. More stories came out, showing that Jerry hadn’t always been faithful.

Even with all this pain, Jacqueline stayed calm. She didn’t fight in the media. She focused on her kids and handled everything with quiet strength.

Life After Divorce for Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell

The divorce was finalized in 2009. After that, Jacqueline decided to step away from public life. She didn’t give interviews or seek attention. She chose peace over drama.

She focused on healing and raising her children. Even though she and Jerry were no longer together, they worked hard to co-parent. They attended family events, school graduations, and special celebrations — always putting their children first.

Jacqueline didn’t remarry. Instead, she focused on herself, her kids, and building a life she could be proud of. She showed the world that life after heartbreak can still be full of love and purpose.

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell’s Business and Career Today

In 2023, Jacqueline began a brand-new chapter. She launched her own business called Pet Gear Elite — an online store that sells high-quality pet supplies.

Why pets? Because Jacqueline has a deep love for animals. She owns six pets with names as unique as their personalities: Royalty, King Louis, Bleu I.V., Elle V., QoeQoe, and ReignBeaux. They’re part of her family, and they inspired her business idea.

But her business is more than just products. A portion of her earnings goes to help abandoned and abused animals around the world. Through this work, Jacqueline continues to give back and spread kindness — something that’s always been part of who she is.

Where Is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell Now in 2026?

So, what happened to Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell, Jerry Rice’s ex-wife? In 2026, she’s living a quiet, peaceful life. She is not on social media and doesn’t try to stay in the spotlight.

She spends time with her family, including her grandson born in 2024 — a sweet baby boy from her daughter Jaqui’s marriage. Being a grandmother has brought her even more joy and purpose.

She also stays busy running Pet Gear Elite and caring for her pets. Her days are simple, filled with love, healing, and quiet strength. She may not be famous anymore, but she’s living the life she wants — and that’s something special.

Final Thoughts

Jacqueline’s story is about so much more than just being Jerry Rice’s ex-wife. It’s a story about love, loss, pain, and rising again.

She survived a health crisis that almost took her life. She dealt with betrayal and heartbreak. She raised strong, successful children. And today, she lives with peace, strength, and dignity.

Many people go through hard times. But Jacqueline shows us that it’s possible to rebuild — even when life knocks you down. Her journey is full of hope and quiet power. And in 2026, her story is still inspiring people all over the world.

(FAQs)

How much money does Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell have now?

She got a lot of money after her divorce from Jerry Rice. She also runs a pet business. People think she’s now worth a few million dollars.

How old is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell?

She was born on April 4, 1964. That means she is 61 years old in 2025.

Was Jacqueline really Jerry Rice’s wife for 22 years?

She was Jerry Rice’s first wife, and they were married for 22 years, during the time he became a football star.

Why did Jacqueline divorce Jerry Rice?

She found out Jerry had cheated on her and had a child with another woman. That’s why she filed for divorce in 2007.

Where is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell living now?

In 2026, she lives a quiet and private life. She runs her pet shop, stays off social media, and spends time with her kids and her baby grandson.

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