A Woman Who Stood Tall Behind the Spotlight

Many people know Jerry Rice—arguably the greatest wide receiver in NFL history—but behind his success for nearly two decades was a woman named Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell. Far more than just a former NFL wife, Jacqueline’s story is one of grace, grit, and survival.

Born in Mississippi, swept into the world of fame, thrown into a terrifying medical crisis, and ultimately reinventing herself as an entrepreneur—Jacqueline has lived a life full of highs, lows, and powerful comebacks. This is her story.

Early Life in Mississippi

Small-town Roots, Big Aspirations

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi, and raised in Greenville. Her father, Coach Mitchell, was a well-respected figure at Greenville High School, while her mother, Gloria Campbell, was a devoted homemaker. Jacqueline’s early years were shaped by faith, family, and community.

She wasn’t just the “coach’s daughter”—Jacqueline was known for her charisma and presence. In 1984, she was crowned Miss Black Greenville Teen, and she shined as a high school cheerleader. Her confidence and charm were undeniable.

After high school, she attended the University of Southern Mississippi, setting her sights on a career—but life had other plans.

Falling in Love With Jerry Rice

The Beginning of a High-Profile Love Story

In 1985, fate stepped in. Jacqueline, still in high school, met a young football phenom from Mississippi Valley State University named Jerry Rice. Their story didn’t start with paparazzi or red carpets—it began with a high school girl asking for an autograph. What she got instead was a hand-written note that simply read, “I would like to meet you.”

What followed was a whirlwind romance that culminated in marriage on September 8, 1987. At just 23 years old, Jacqueline became the wife of a rising NFL star. As Jerry’s fame skyrocketed, she gracefully stepped into the world of glitz, media appearances, and relentless spotlight.

But she remained grounded. Her life revolved around family and raising their children, while Jerry became a household name.

Building a Family and Facing the Unthinkable

Motherhood and Milestones

Together, Jacqueline and Jerry welcomed three children:

• Jaqui Bonet Rice (born 1987)
• Jerry Rice Jr. (born 1991)
• Jada Symone Rice (born 1996)

While Jerry was catching touchdowns, Jacqueline was catching diaper bags, school plays, and doctor’s appointments. She was the foundation of the home, the constant in a fast-moving world.

A Life-Altering Health Crisis

In May 1996, shortly after giving birth to Jada, Jacqueline’s life took a dramatic turn. She began hemorrhaging severely and was rushed into emergency surgery. The complications left her in a coma for nearly three months.

Doctors weren’t sure she would survive. Her family feared the worst. But Jacqueline, as always, had more fight in her than anyone realized.

When she finally woke up, she couldn’t walk. She would spend a year in a wheelchair, then move on to crutches, canes, and eventually—through pure will—walk again. The full recovery took over three years.

Jerry stayed by her side during the ordeal. In interviews, he described it as the most terrifying experience of his life. But it was Jacqueline who bore the pain and rose from it.

Divorce and Life After Jerry Rice

The End of a Marriage

After 20 years of marriage, Jacqueline and Jerry separated in 2007. Reports later revealed that Jerry had fathered another child outside the marriage, which led Jacqueline to file for divorce.

By 2009, the divorce was finalized. While many high-profile splits end in bitterness, Jacqueline chose a quieter path. She received a portion of the couple’s assets and kept her focus on her children and recovery—not revenge.

Quiet Strength in the Background

Though the media often focused on Jerry, Jacqueline kept her dignity and privacy. She wasn’t interested in fame—she was interested in healing, stability, and building something of her own.

Reinventing Herself: Entrepreneur & Animal Advocate

Launching Pet Gear Elite

In 2023, Jacqueline made a surprising move—she founded an online pet supply business called Pet Gear Elite. It was a fresh chapter, entirely unrelated to football, rooted in her love for animals. She now cares for six pets, calling them her “little emotional support squad.”

But the company wasn’t just a business. It was her way of giving back. Part of the proceeds go toward animal welfare initiatives, particularly for abused or abandoned pets.

A Life With Purpose

Today, Jacqueline leads a quieter life. She supports her children, cheers for their dreams, and continues growing her brand. Her daughter Jaqui is the CEO of GOAT Fuel, a fitness energy drink company co-founded with Jerry. Her son, Jerry Jr., briefly played football and pursued his own ventures.

Jacqueline may no longer walk red carpets—but she walks with something far more powerful: peace and purpose.

FAQs About Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell

Who is Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell?

She is the former wife of NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice and a businesswoman who survived a life-threatening coma and later launched her own company.

When was Jacqueline born?

She was born on April 4, 1964, in Starkville, Mississippi.

How many children does she have?

Jacqueline has three children: Jaqui, Jerry Jr., and Jada.

Why was Jacqueline in a coma?

She suffered severe complications during childbirth in 1996 and was in a coma for nearly three months.

Is Jacqueline still married to Jerry Rice?

No, the couple divorced in 2009 after 22 years of marriage.

What does she do now?

She is the founder of Pet Gear Elite, a pet supply business that supports animal charities.

What is her relationship with her children like?

She remains deeply involved in their lives and is especially supportive of her daughter Jaqui’s business ventures.

Final Thoughts

Jacqueline Bernice Mitchell isn’t a celebrity in the traditional sense. She doesn’t chase headlines. But her story resonates because it’s deeply human. She faced betrayal, battled for her life, and rebuilt everything from the ground up—on her own terms.

Her strength isn’t measured in public accolades, but in private victories: walking again, forgiving, raising children, and starting over at 50.

Jacqueline is a reminder that behind every public figure, there are often unsung heroes. And sometimes, those heroes find their voice—one step, one business, one life-changing moment at a time.