Horace Gilmore may not be a public figure or celebrity, but his presence in the life of Rhonda McCullough, widow of comedian Bernie Mac, tells a touching story. It’s not about fame. It’s not about headlines. It’s about how two people can find healing, love, and support through shared loss.
This blog walks you through Horace Gilmore’s background, his relationship with Rhonda, and how their journey together became a symbol of love after grief.
Who is Horace Gilmore?
Horace Gilmore is someone who lived outside the spotlight—until life brought him closer to someone who once lived in it. He was a longtime family friend of the McCullough family. For years, he stayed connected to the community, often involved in church events. He wasn’t just a quiet observer. He was known to be kind, spiritual, and steady.
After Bernie Mac’s passing in 2008, Rhonda was devastated. Bernie wasn’t just her husband; he was her soulmate. The pain of losing him was deep. Then came Horace—also someone who had lost a partner. He understood grief in a way few could. That shared experience became the bridge that brought them together.
How did they meet?
The two met in 2009 at a gathering hosted by a mutual friend. At first, there were no sparks or signs of a future relationship. They were simply two people in the same room, each carrying silent grief.
But as they started talking, they realized they understood each other. They weren’t just exchanging words. They were sharing pain, memories, and hope. That first conversation opened a door that neither of them expected to walk through.
What made their connection special?
Their bond wasn’t built on attraction or timing. It was built on shared life experience. Both had lost people they loved deeply. They knew the hollow feeling that comes after saying goodbye. That understanding created a space where they could just be real—no pretending, no explanations needed.
They slowly transitioned from friends to partners. There was no rush. Their bond grew naturally. Over time, they realized they weren’t just healing together. They were also falling in love.
A 13-Hour First Date
When they finally went on their first date in 2010, it turned into a marathon of connection. It started with a Chicago Bulls game. After that, they went to dinner. Then came hours of deep conversation at Rhonda’s apartment.
That first date lasted over 13 hours.
They laughed. They shared stories. They opened up about their late spouses and what love meant to them now. That night showed them both that this wasn’t just a casual meeting. It was something deeper.
When did they get married?
On December 31, 2010, Horace and Rhonda got married. The date wasn’t just chosen at random. New Year’s Eve is a symbol of fresh beginnings, and for both of them, that’s exactly what it was.
The wedding didn’t erase the past. It honored it. Rhonda has said she never stopped loving Bernie. But she also allowed herself to love again—and Horace respected that completely.
How did Horace support Rhonda after Bernie’s death?
Horace didn’t try to replace Bernie Mac. He knew no one could. Instead, he chose to honor Bernie’s memory alongside Rhonda. One of the most significant things he did was help her continue Bernie’s legacy.
Rhonda had taken over managing the Bernie Mac Foundation. The foundation was created to raise awareness about sarcoidosis, the disease that contributed to Bernie’s death. Horace stepped in, not just as emotional support, but also as a helping hand. He attended events, helped with planning, and encouraged her when the pressure became too much.
His support extended beyond public work. He helped at home. He picked up everyday responsibilities. This was a big change for Rhonda, who had been used to managing most things on her own. She once shared that Horace did everything from helping with laundry to cooking meals.
That kind of love—the quiet, consistent kind—was exactly what she needed.
Did Rhonda ever doubt moving on?
Yes. Like many widows, Rhonda wrestled with guilt. Could she love someone else without betraying Bernie’s memory?
According to Rhonda, Bernie came to her in a dream. In that dream, he gave his blessing. He told her it was okay to move forward. That moment gave her peace. It made her feel like she wasn’t leaving Bernie behind. She was just allowing herself to live again.
Horace also made it easier. He never asked her to forget. He simply asked to be part of her future.
What role did their faith play?
Both Horace and Rhonda are deeply spiritual. Their shared faith helped them navigate grief and grow closer. They met through church friends and often leaned on prayer during hard times.
Spiritual connection became the glue that kept them strong. They believed their meeting wasn’t just luck. It was part of a bigger plan.
Celebrating Love After Loss
Their story is not just about romance. It’s about healing. It’s about two people finding light in a dark chapter of their lives.
Rhonda often says she never imagined finding love again. But Horace changed that. He didn’t try to fix her grief. He simply stood beside her while she carried it.
Together, they’ve shown that love after loss is not only possible—it can be beautiful.
FAQs
Who is Horace Gilmore?
Horace Gilmore is the husband of Rhonda McCullough, the widow of comedian Bernie Mac. He was a longtime friend of the McCullough family and met Rhonda after both had lost their previous spouses.
When did Horace and Rhonda get married?
They got married on December 31, 2010. Their wedding marked a new beginning for both of them.
Was Horace involved in the Bernie Mac Foundation?
Yes. He supported Rhonda in managing the Bernie Mac Foundation. He helped raise awareness for sarcoidosis and kept Bernie’s legacy alive.
Did Horace know Bernie Mac?
Yes. Horace was a family friend, so he knew Bernie Mac before his passing. This connection added depth to his relationship with Rhonda.
What made their relationship special?
Both Horace and Rhonda had experienced the pain of losing a partner. That shared grief became the foundation of their bond. They supported each other emotionally and spiritually.
Is Horace a public figure?
No, Horace Gilmore is not a celebrity or public figure. He keeps a private life but became known because of his relationship with Rhonda McCullough.
How did Rhonda handle moving on after Bernie’s death?
At first, Rhonda struggled with guilt. But a dream where Bernie gave his blessing helped her accept her new relationship with peace and confidence.
Final Thoughts
Horace Gilmore didn’t seek fame. He didn’t want the spotlight. He just wanted to love and be loved. His journey with Rhonda McCullough is a quiet story—but it’s powerful.
Together, they’ve shown that life after loss can still be full of joy. That you can love again without forgetting. That support, understanding, and faith can turn pain into purpose.
Horace may not be known to the world. But to Rhonda—and to everyone touched by their story—he’s a reminder that love never ends. It just changes form.