Rhonda McCullough is an American philanthropist, former nurse, producer, and nonprofit executive best known as the longtime wife of legendary comedian Bernie Mac. Born Rhonda Gore on June 21, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, she married Bernie on September 17, 1977, when they were both teenagers. The couple remained together for more than 30 years until his death in August 2008. Today, Rhonda continues his charitable legacy as president and chief executive officer of the Bernie Mac Foundation, which supports research and awareness of sarcoidosis.
Although Bernie Mac became internationally famous through stand-up comedy, television, and movies, Rhonda was an important part of his life long before he achieved success.
They met as teenagers in Chicago and built their family while facing financial difficulties during Bernie’s early career.
Their only daughter, Je’Niece McCullough, was born in 1978.
After Bernie’s death from complications of pneumonia in 2008, Rhonda experienced a difficult period of grief. She later became increasingly involved in the foundation they had established to support people affected by sarcoidosis.
Her work has included fundraising, public education, documentaries, and preserving her husband’s entertainment legacy.
Rhonda later married Horace Gilmore and is also known as Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore.
As of October 2026, she is 68 years old and remains actively involved in charitable leadership.
Quick Bio: Rhonda McCullough
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rhonda R. McCullough |
| Birth Name | Rhonda Gore |
| Also Known As | Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore |
| Date of Birth | June 21, 1958 |
| Age in 2026 | 68 years |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Philanthropist, nonprofit executive, producer, former nurse |
| Education | Chicago Vocational School; Dawson Technical Institute |
| First Husband | Bernie Mac |
| First Marriage | September 17, 1977 |
| First Husband’s Death | August 9, 2008 |
| Later Husband | Horace Gilmore |
| Daughter | Je’Niece McCullough |
| Granddaughter | Jasmine Childress |
| Organization | Bernie Mac Foundation |
| Foundation Position | President and Chief Executive Officer |
| Famous Productions | I Ain’t Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac |
| Book Collaboration | I Don’t Care If You Like Me, I Like Me |
| Main Charitable Focus | Sarcoidosis research and awareness |
| Net Worth | Not independently verified |
Who Is Rhonda McCullough?
Rhonda McCullough is an American woman who has spent much of her life supporting family, entertainment, and charitable causes.
She first became publicly known through her marriage to Bernie Mac.
However, her professional background includes nursing, producing, and nonprofit leadership.
She met Bernie when he was still a teenager dreaming of becoming a successful comedian.
At that time, he had not achieved the fame associated with The Bernie Mac Show, Ocean’s Eleven, or The Original Kings of Comedy.
Rhonda supported him through difficult financial periods and the early development of his entertainment career.
Their relationship lasted more than three decades.
Following his death, Rhonda became an important advocate for people living with sarcoidosis, the inflammatory disease Bernie had experienced for many years.
She now serves as the president and chief executive officer of the organization established in his name.
Her position is confirmed by the Bernie Mac Foundation’s official leadership information.
BernieMacFoundation
Rhonda McCullough’s Early Life
Rhonda was born on June 21, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois.
Her birth name was Rhonda Gore.
She grew up on Chicago’s South Side, an area known for its history, culture, music, and strong community traditions.
Growing Up in Chicago
Chicago became an important part of Rhonda’s identity.
It was where she attended school, met her future husband, and began building her family.
The city was also central to Bernie’s comedy career.
Many of his jokes and performances were influenced by his experiences growing up in Chicago.
Rhonda’s Family Background
Rhonda’s mother has been identified as Mary Simmons in biographical records.
However, detailed information about her parents and siblings is limited.
Rhonda generally became known through her marriage and later philanthropic work rather than discussions of her childhood family.
A Life Before Fame
Before Bernie became famous, Rhonda experienced a relatively ordinary young adulthood.
She pursued education and professional work.
Her later interviews describe a period when the couple had to manage everyday responsibilities while Bernie searched for opportunities as a comedian.
Rhonda McCullough’s Education
Rhonda attended Chicago Vocational School, where she met Bernie Mac.
She later pursued professional training in nursing.
Chicago Vocational School
Chicago Vocational School was an important part of Rhonda’s early life.
She met Bernie there in 1974.
Their introduction came through a mutual friend.
The meeting eventually led to a relationship that lasted until Bernie’s death.
Dawson Technical Institute
Rhonda later graduated from Dawson Technical Institute’s nursing program.
Her professional background helped her understand the importance of patient care.
It also became relevant to her later work raising awareness about sarcoidosis.
Working as a Nurse
Before focusing on nonprofit leadership, Rhonda worked in nursing.
The profession involves supporting patients, monitoring health, and helping people understand medical needs.
Her experiences provided a foundation for the compassion and organizational skills she later brought to the Bernie Mac Foundation.
In 2018, Chicago’s WTTW reported on Rhonda’s nursing background and her early relationship with Bernie.
WTTW
How Did Rhonda McCullough Meet Bernie Mac?
Rhonda and Bernie met in 1974 at Chicago Vocational School.
They were teenagers when a mutual friend introduced them.
Their first meeting became an important part of the story Rhonda later shared about her husband.
Bernie’s Famous Prediction
According to Rhonda’s recollections, Bernie confidently told her that he was going to become rich and famous.
At the time, he had not established his professional comedy career.
His confidence made the moment memorable.
Rhonda later discussed the story in interviews about their marriage.
Becoming High School Sweethearts
The pair began dating while they were young.
Their relationship continued after school.
Bernie pursued comedy while Rhonda worked toward building a stable adult life.
Believing in His Future
Rhonda has said she believed Bernie would become successful.
However, her early hopes were practical.
She wanted them to have a comfortable home and enough money to support their family.
Bernie imagined a much larger entertainment career.
Over time, his ambition began to become reality.
Rhonda McCullough and Bernie Mac’s Marriage
September 17, 1977
Rhonda Gore married Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, professionally known as Bernie Mac, on September 17, 1977.
Both were 19 years old.
The marriage began before Bernie’s rise to national fame.
Building Their First Home
After marrying, Rhonda and Bernie faced ordinary financial responsibilities.
Bernie’s entertainment career was still developing.
He worked various jobs to support the household.
These included employment in transportation, restaurants, and other industries.
Supporting a Young Family
The couple welcomed their daughter, Je’Niece, in 1978.
Becoming parents created additional responsibilities.
Rhonda continued working while Bernie pursued comedy opportunities.
More Than 30 Years Together
Their marriage lasted until Bernie died on August 9, 2008.
They had been married for nearly 31 years.
Their relationship therefore included most of Bernie’s rise from local Chicago performer to nationally recognized comedian.
An Important Partnership
Bernie occasionally discussed family life in his comedy.
However, Rhonda generally maintained a quieter public presence.
Their marriage became an important part of his life outside entertainment.
Who Was Bernie Mac?
Bernie Mac was an American comedian, actor, and television producer.
He was born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough on October 5, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois.
He became famous for his energetic comedy performances, distinctive voice, and ability to turn everyday family experiences into memorable stories.
Beginning His Comedy Career
Bernie started performing stand-up comedy in Chicago.
He developed his skills in clubs and small entertainment venues.
His early life was not financially easy.
He worked several different jobs while trying to establish his comedy career.
Rhonda witnessed these struggles firsthand.
Def Comedy Jam
Bernie’s appearance on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam helped bring him national recognition.
His confident delivery and direct comedic style made him popular with audiences.
His success led to opportunities in movies and television.
The Original Kings of Comedy
Bernie became one of the performers featured in The Original Kings of Comedy.
The 2000 film also featured Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley.
The production was directed by Spike Lee.
It introduced Bernie’s comedy to an even wider audience.
The Bernie Mac Show
Bernie starred in The Bernie Mac Show, which premiered in 2001.
The sitcom followed a fictionalized version of Bernie raising three children.
His character frequently addressed the audience directly.
The series became a critical success and received numerous awards and nominations.
Bernie’s Film Career
Bernie appeared in movies including Ocean’s Eleven, Bad Santa, Mr. 3000, Guess Who, Transformers, and Soul Men.
His acting career demonstrated his ability to combine comedy with dramatic storytelling.
His professional achievements remain an important part of American entertainment history.
Rhonda McCullough’s Daughter, Je’Niece
Rhonda and Bernie had one daughter, Je’Niece McCullough.
She was born in 1978 in Chicago.
Je’Niece grew up while her father was developing his comedy career.
Je’Niece’s Education
Je’Niece pursued higher education and studied psychology and mental health counseling.
Her professional interests included social services and helping others.
Working With Bernie Mac
In 2004, Je’Niece began working as her father’s assistant.
The position gave her experience in the entertainment industry.
It also allowed her to spend more time with him during his busy professional schedule.
Life After Her Father’s Death
Following Bernie’s death, Je’Niece became involved in preserving his legacy.
She has participated in the Bernie Mac Foundation and discussions about his career.
Her work has also included public speaking about grief and family relationships.
Bernie’s Daughter Podcast
In 2023, Je’Niece launched Bernie’s Daughter Podcast.
The program features conversations about her father’s life and influence.
It provides another way for fans to learn about the entertainer through people who knew him.
Her professional background and family activities were discussed in a 2025 People profile.
People.com
Rhonda McCullough’s Granddaughter
Rhonda is also a grandmother.
Her granddaughter is Jasmine Childress, Je’Niece’s daughter.
Jasmine was born in 2007.
Bernie Mac as a Grandfather
Bernie became a grandfather shortly before his death.
Although he did not live long enough to see Jasmine grow up, he experienced the early months of her life.
A Family Connection
In a 2018 interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, Rhonda discussed Jasmine’s personality.
She described her granddaughter as outgoing and comfortable speaking in front of people.
Rhonda saw similarities between Jasmine and her late grandfather.
Remembering Bernie Through Family
Family stories help younger generations understand relatives they may not have known well.
For Rhonda, sharing memories of Bernie allows his granddaughter to remain connected to his personality and achievements.
Chicago Sun-Times
Bernie Mac’s Battle With Sarcoidosis
An important part of Rhonda’s life involved supporting Bernie through a long-term medical condition.
Bernie was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 1983.
At the time, he was still building his comedy career.
What Is Sarcoidosis?
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease in which clusters of immune cells, called granulomas, can develop in different organs.
It most commonly affects the lungs and lymph nodes.
Symptoms vary widely.
Some people experience fatigue, coughing, and shortness of breath, while others develop problems involving the skin, eyes, heart, or other organs.
Bernie’s Experience
Bernie lived with sarcoidosis for approximately 25 years.
The condition affected his lungs.
Despite his health challenges, he continued working in comedy, television, and film.
Rhonda’s Role
Rhonda helped support her husband while he received medical care.
Her nursing background gave her experience with healthcare environments and patient needs.
Their personal experience later inspired efforts to educate others about sarcoidosis.
The Foundation’s Origins
Bernie and Rhonda wanted to improve awareness and support medical research.
Their vision developed into the Bernie Mac Foundation.
The organization describes its formal establishment as occurring in 2007, following planning and charitable activity during the preceding years.
BernieMacFoundation
How Did Bernie Mac Die?
Bernie Mac died on August 9, 2008.
He was 50 years old.
His death followed complications from pneumonia.
His Final Hospitalization
Bernie was admitted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago after experiencing serious respiratory problems.
His condition became critical.
He required intensive medical treatment and breathing support.
The Role of Sarcoidosis
Bernie had lived with sarcoidosis for decades.
The disease and treatments affecting his immune system complicated his medical history.
However, the immediate cause of death was complications from pneumonia.
It is important not to describe sarcoidosis alone as his direct cause of death.
Rhonda and Je’Niece at the Hospital
Reports indicate that Rhonda and their daughter were present during Bernie’s final period of hospitalization.
His death was a devastating event for the family.
Public Reaction
Bernie’s death attracted international attention.
Comedians, actors, musicians, and fans expressed their sadness.
Many remembered his honesty, humor, and influence on American comedy.
His memorial service took place in Chicago on August 16, 2008.
Rhonda McCullough’s Life After Bernie’s Death
Rhonda experienced a difficult period following the loss of her husband.
They had been together since their teenage years.
Their relationship had lasted more than three decades.
Coping With Grief
Rhonda later discussed how painful it was to adjust to life without Bernie.
Their shared history included marriage, parenthood, career changes, financial struggles, and professional success.
His absence affected her everyday routine.
Finding a New Purpose
Eventually, Rhonda concentrated more heavily on the charitable foundation they had established.
The organization gave her a way to continue work that had been meaningful to Bernie.
Keeping His Memory Alive
Rhonda participated in interviews, tribute events, and projects celebrating Bernie’s entertainment career.
She also supported activities that helped patients and families affected by sarcoidosis.
Her work allowed Bernie’s influence to continue through philanthropy.
Rhonda McCullough and the Bernie Mac Foundation
Rhonda is the president and chief executive officer of the Bernie Mac Foundation.
The organization is based in Chicago.
Its mission involves education, research, and support for people living with sarcoidosis.
Supporting Medical Research
The foundation works to encourage research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of sarcoidosis.
Because the disease can affect different organs, medical research involves specialists from several fields.
Improving Public Awareness
Many people have never heard of sarcoidosis.
The foundation aims to increase public understanding.
It also works to connect patients with medical information and supportive communities.
Helping Underserved Communities
The foundation emphasizes helping people who may have difficulty accessing specialist care or reliable educational resources.
Its mission includes reducing gaps between medical professionals and patients.
Rhonda’s Leadership
Rhonda oversees the organization’s charitable direction and public mission.
She has also participated in interviews and events explaining Bernie’s experience with the disease.
Her leadership is central to the foundation’s continuing activities.
BernieMacFoundation
Rhonda McCullough’s Work in Documentaries
Rhonda has also participated in producing projects related to Bernie’s life and sarcoidosis awareness.
I Ain’t Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac
Rhonda served as an executive producer of the 2011 documentary I Ain’t Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac.
The production explored Bernie’s comedy career and his influence on other entertainers.
It featured memories and commentary from people connected to his professional life.
Preserving His Career
The documentary provided an opportunity to revisit performances and experiences that shaped Bernie’s reputation.
It also helped introduce his work to audiences who discovered him after his death.
Project Purple: Mission Sarcoidosis Awareness
Rhonda’s production credits include Project Purple: Mission Sarcoidosis Awareness, released in 2023.
The project reflects her continuing interest in educating audiences about the disease.
Warrior: The Bernie Mac Disease
The Bernie Mac Foundation also features a project titled Warrior: The Bernie Mac Disease.
It focuses on Bernie’s experience and on patients living with sarcoidosis around the world.
The project connects personal storytelling with medical awareness.
Rhonda McCullough’s Book Collaboration
Rhonda contributed to the posthumous Bernie Mac book I Don’t Care If You Like Me, I Like Me.
The book was published in 2022.
What Is the Book About?
The publication presents lessons, reflections, and stories connected to Bernie’s personality and life experiences.
It explores subjects including perseverance, confidence, family, and personal values.
Rhonda’s Contribution
Rhonda helped bring the book to publication.
She also narrated its audiobook edition.
Her involvement added a personal connection to the project.
A Lasting Family Legacy
The book gave readers another opportunity to connect with Bernie’s humor and outlook on life.
It also reflected Rhonda’s continued commitment to preserving his legacy.
Did Rhonda McCullough Remarry?
Yes. Rhonda later married Horace Gilmore.
She is also publicly known as Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore.
Her Second Marriage
People reported that Rhonda married Horace Gilmore in 2010.
Her IMDb biography lists their marriage as beginning in 2011.
Because those sources differ slightly, the exact wedding date is not firmly established.
Continuing to Honor Bernie
Rhonda’s remarriage did not end her involvement in the Bernie Mac Foundation.
She continued overseeing the organization’s activities and participating in events celebrating Bernie’s work.
A Private Family Life
Rhonda has kept many details of her later marriage private.
There is limited dependable public information about Horace’s professional background or the couple’s everyday life.
Rhonda McCullough’s Life in 2026
As of October 2026, Rhonda remains active in charitable leadership.
The Bernie Mac Foundation’s official website continues identifying her as president and chief executive officer.
October 2026 Foundation Message
On October 1, 2026, Rhonda published a message through the foundation reflecting on gratitude, change, and personal growth.
She also remembered Bernie’s birthday, which falls on October 5.
The message demonstrated that preserving his legacy remains important to her.
Eighteen Years After Bernie’s Death
August 9, 2026, marked eighteen years since Bernie died.
The foundation commemorated his life and charitable contributions.
It also celebrated patients, medical professionals, and community members involved in sarcoidosis awareness.
Continuing the Foundation’s Mission
The organization remains focused on helping people understand sarcoidosis and supporting research.
Rhonda’s leadership connects Bernie’s original vision with ongoing charitable activities.
These updates are documented on the foundation’s official website.
BernieMacFoundation
Rhonda McCullough’s Net Worth
Rhonda McCullough’s personal net worth has not been independently verified.
Several celebrity biography websites publish estimated figures, but those claims generally lack reliable financial documentation.
Her Professional Income
Rhonda has worked as a nurse, producer, author, and nonprofit executive.
However, the exact compensation associated with her individual positions has not been publicly established.
Bernie Mac’s Estate
Bernie earned income from stand-up comedy, television, and movies.
The details of his estate and individual inheritance arrangements have not been fully disclosed.
It would therefore be inaccurate to assign Rhonda a specific net worth based only on estimates of Bernie’s earnings.
Foundation Funds
Money raised for the Bernie Mac Foundation supports charitable activities.
The organization’s resources should not be confused with Rhonda’s personal wealth.
Interesting Facts About Rhonda McCullough
1. She was born in Chicago. Her birthday is June 21, 1958.
2. Her birth name was Rhonda Gore. She later became known as Rhonda McCullough.
3. She met Bernie Mac in high school. They were introduced in 1974.
4. She married at 19. Their wedding took place on September 17, 1977.
5. She worked as a nurse. She completed nursing training at Dawson Technical Institute.
6. She has one daughter. Je’Niece McCullough was born in 1978.
7. She is a grandmother. Her granddaughter is Jasmine Childress.
8. She leads the Bernie Mac Foundation. The organization supports sarcoidosis research and education.
9. She has worked as a producer. Her credits include a 2011 tribute documentary about Bernie.
10. She helped publish a Bernie Mac book. She contributed to I Don’t Care If You Like Me, I Like Me in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhonda McCullough
1. Who is Rhonda McCullough?
Rhonda McCullough is an American philanthropist, former nurse, and nonprofit executive best known as Bernie Mac’s longtime wife.
2. How old is Rhonda McCullough in 2026?
She is 68 years old.
3. When was Rhonda McCullough born?
She was born on June 21, 1958.
4. Where was Rhonda McCullough born?
She was born in Chicago, Illinois.
5. What is Rhonda McCullough’s birth name?
Her birth name was Rhonda Gore.
6. Who was Rhonda McCullough’s first husband?
Her first husband was comedian and actor Bernie Mac.
7. When did Rhonda marry Bernie Mac?
They married on September 17, 1977.
8. How did Rhonda meet Bernie Mac?
They met through a mutual friend at Chicago Vocational School in 1974.
9. How long were Rhonda and Bernie married?
They were married for nearly 31 years.
10. Did Bernie Mac and Rhonda have children?
Yes. They had one daughter, Je’Niece McCullough.
11. Who is Rhonda McCullough’s daughter?
Her daughter is Je’Niece McCullough, who has worked in counseling, advocacy, and public speaking.
12. Does Rhonda McCullough have grandchildren?
Yes. She has a granddaughter named Jasmine Childress.
13. What did Rhonda do before managing the foundation?
She worked as a nurse.
14. What is the Bernie Mac Foundation?
It is a nonprofit organization that supports sarcoidosis research, education, and patient awareness.
15. What position does Rhonda hold at the foundation?
She serves as president and chief executive officer.
16. When did Bernie Mac die?
He died on August 9, 2008.
17. What caused Bernie Mac’s death?
He died from complications of pneumonia after living for many years with sarcoidosis.
18. Did Rhonda McCullough remarry?
Yes. She married Horace Gilmore around 2010–2011.
19. What is Rhonda McCullough’s current married name?
She is also known as Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore.
20. Is Rhonda McCullough a producer?
Yes. Her production credits include I Ain’t Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac.
21. Did Rhonda help write a book?
Yes. She contributed to the 2022 publication I Don’t Care If You Like Me, I Like Me.
22. What is Rhonda McCullough’s net worth?
Her individual net worth has not been independently verified.
23. Is Rhonda McCullough still alive in 2026?
Yes. She remains publicly active through the Bernie Mac Foundation.
24. Does Rhonda McCullough still work with the foundation?
Yes. The organization’s official website identifies her as its president and CEO in October 2026.
25. Why is Rhonda McCullough famous?
She is known for her longtime marriage to Bernie Mac, her producing work, and her leadership of the foundation established in his name.
Final Thoughts
Rhonda McCullough has spent much of her life supporting family, entertainment, and charitable causes.
Born in Chicago in 1958, she met Bernie Mac while they were both teenagers.
They married in 1977 and welcomed their daughter, Je’Niece, the following year.
Their marriage lasted nearly 31 years and included Bernie’s rise from local stand-up comedian to internationally recognized actor and television star.
During those years, Rhonda also developed a professional background in nursing.
Her experience became especially meaningful when Bernie faced health challenges associated with sarcoidosis.
Following his death in August 2008, Rhonda eventually devoted more attention to the foundation they had established.
She became its president and chief executive officer, helping support patients, medical research, and public education.
Her work also includes documentaries and publications preserving Bernie’s entertainment legacy.
In 2026, Rhonda McCullough is 68 years old and continues to serve as a leader in sarcoidosis awareness.
Her story demonstrates that the legacy of a famous entertainer can extend far beyond television performances and movies.
Through family, advocacy, and charitable leadership, Rhonda continues the work that she and Bernie believed could make a difference in other people’s lives.
For more political biographies, family histories, and fascinating personality stories, visit Topper Magazine.
