Bernie Mac was a beloved comedian known for his unique sense of humour and infectious personality. However, many may not know much about his wife, Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore, who has been making a significant impact in honouring her late husband’s legacy. Bernie and Rhonda met in high school in 1974 and got married in 1977, building a life together that included their daughter, Je’Niece McCullough. Tragically, Bernie Mac passed away on August 9, 2008, after battling complications from pneumonia and sarcoidosis, a lung disease.
Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore’s life took a drastic turn with Bernie’s passing, but she found strength in continuing his work. She became a passionate advocate for sarcoidosis awareness and research, dedicating her time to the Bernie Mac Foundation, which Bernie himself helped establish in 2007. Rhonda’s unwavering commitment to the foundation shows her dedication to keeping Bernie’s memory alive through meaningful actions.
Before Bernie Mac’s death, Rhonda was already pursuing her own career as a nurse while supporting her husband’s burgeoning comedy career. Following his passing, she took on the role of CEO and president of the Bernie Mac Foundation, stepping into the spotlight as a philanthropist in her own right. Rhonda’s work has not gone unnoticed, as she was honoured as the Phenomenal Woman of the Year in Philanthropy by the Reaching Back Foundation in 2013.
Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore’s resilience and determination to carry on Bernie Mac’s legacy are truly commendable. She showed her strength in the face of adversity, initially struggling to find her purpose after her husband’s death but eventually embracing the cause he held dear. Despite the challenges she faced, Rhonda persisted in her efforts and continues to make a difference in the fight against sarcoidosis.
After Bernie Mac’s passing, Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore found love again and remarried in 2010 to Horace Gilmore. However, her love and admiration for Bernie Mac have never wavered, as she continues to cherish his memory and honour him in various ways. From attending ceremonies to celebrate his accomplishments to co-authoring his posthumous book, Rhonda ensures that Bernie’s legacy lives on through her actions and dedication to the Bernie Mac Foundation.
Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore’s journey since Bernie Mac’s death is a testament to her strength and resilience. She has not only kept his memory alive but has also made significant contributions to the sarcoidosis community through her advocacy work. Rhonda’s unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funding research for the disease showcases her profound love for Bernie and her desire to make a positive impact in his honour.
In conclusion, Rhonda McCullough-Gilmore’s life today is a reflection of her enduring love for Bernie Mac and her relentless pursuit of making a difference in the world. Through her work with the Bernie Mac Foundation and her advocacy for sarcoidosis, Rhonda continues to shine a light on important issues and carry forward her late husband’s legacy with grace and determination.