Jerry Mathers' Marriages & Rhonda Gehring: A Look Back

Laurine Ratke 14 May 2025

Can a childhood star truly navigate the complexities of adulthood, finding both enduring fame and lasting love? For Jerry Mathers, the iconic "Beaver" from "Leave It to Beaver," the journey has been a testament to resilience, marked by the highs and lows of celebrity, health challenges, and the search for happiness in the most unexpected places.

Gerald Patrick Mathers, born on June 2, 1948, burst onto the scene as Theodore "Beaver" Cleaver, captivating audiences with his boyish charm and relatable antics on the beloved sitcom "Leave It to Beaver," which originally aired from 1957 to 1963. While the show solidified his place in television history, Mathers' life off-screen has been a far cry from the idealized suburban world of the Cleavers. He navigated the transition from child star to adult, facing the pressures of fame, personal health battles, and the complexities of relationships.

Full Name:	Gerald Patrick Mathers
Born:	June 2, 1948
Known For:	Actor, "Leave It to Beaver"
Marriages:	Diana Platt (1974), Rhonda Gehring (1977), Teresa Modnick (2011)
Children:	Noah, Mercedes, Gretchen
Health:	Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in the late 1990s
Current Residence:	Huntington Beach, CA (as of 2011)
Other Relationships:	Rhonda Mathers (divorced, three children), Teresa Modnick (current wife)
Additional Info:	Speaks about health and diabetes awareness.
Reference:	IMDb

Mathers' romantic life has been as eventful as his career. He married Diana Platt, his college sweetheart, in 1974. Following their divorce, he remarried Rhonda Gehring in 1977. This second marriage, however, was not destined to last, ending in divorce. He would later go on to meet Teresa Modnick, and after a five-year courtship, they tied the knot in January 2011, in Huntington Beach. The couple's relationship began in an interesting way, as they shared with Maine seniors that their sisters are friends, who decided to set them up. They are now happily married.

The journey hasn't been without its challenges. Mathers faced health issues, including weight gain and a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes in the late 1990s. He has since become an advocate for health awareness, speaking to crowds about diabetes and promoting a healthier lifestyle. His commitment to improving his health is a reflection of his personal growth and determination.

His second wife, Rhonda Gehring, gained public attention as a private figure, who was married to the actor. Her life intertwined with Mathers' for a significant period. She shares three children, Noah, Mercedes, and Gretchen, with Mathers.

Mathers' personal life experienced both joy and heartache. He experienced the pain of divorce, including his separation from Rhonda Gehring, who left him for another man, but has found happiness again with his current wife, Teresa Modnick, and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren. He is a proud father of three grown children who have their own families and successful lives.

Adding another layer to the complexities of Mathers' story are the events surrounding his relationships. Rhonda Gehring, a figure who was once a significant part of his life, became a subject of public interest. Her presence in his life, though now in the past, played a role in shaping the narrative of his life's journey.

The pressures of fame and the transition from child star to adult proved to be a significant hurdle for Mathers. He has navigated the challenges of the entertainment industry, from the early days of "Leave It to Beaver" to the present day. He continues to attend events, conduct cruises with fellow actors, and engage with his fans.

One can often spot Mathers and his current wife, Teresa Modnick, running errands, showcasing a sense of normalcy and contentment in his current life. His story is a reminder that even for those who experience early fame, life continues to evolve and provide new opportunities for growth and happiness. It's a story of survival, of adaptation, and of finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Mathers' journey is a testament to the enduring human spirit, demonstrating the importance of resilience, adaptation, and finding joy in life's unexpected turns. He is now happily married and a grandfather of five, cherishing moments with his family.

His story is a reminder that even for those who experience early fame, life continues to evolve and provide new opportunities for growth and happiness.

The actor's experience mirrors the experiences of many public figures, showcasing how personal challenges can shape one's life and career. It's a story of resilience, personal growth, and the search for happiness.

His second wife, Rhonda, was described by some sources as a private person, and the details of her life are not as widely publicized.