Rosemary Elikolani is best known as the mother of famous singer and actress Nicole Scherzinger, the former lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls. While her daughter enjoys global fame, Rosemary has chosen to live a quiet life away from the public spotlight, preferring privacy over attention. Her story is one of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering love a journey from a young teen mother in Hawaii to the woman who shaped one of music’s biggest stars.
Rosemary became a mother at just 17 years old, and when her partner Alfonso left when Nicole was only two, she was left to raise her daughter alone . The family struggled to make ends meet, sometimes surviving on packet-mix pancakes for all three meals of the day, yet she never gave up on giving her children a better life . Her determination and strength laid the foundation for Nicole’s eventual success, proving that a mother’s love can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
Rosemary Elikolani: Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Rosemary Elikolani |
| Famous As | Mother of Nicole Scherzinger |
| Date of Birth | October 12, 1960 |
| Age | 65 years old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Native Hawaiian (father) and Ukrainian (mother) |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches (157.5 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brunette |
| Eye Color | Dark |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Gary Scherzinger |
| Children | Nicole Scherzinger, Keala Scherzinger |
| Estimated Net Worth | $500,000 |
Who Is Rosemary Elikolani?
Rosemary Elikolani is the mother of Nicole Scherzinger, who was born Nicole Prascovia Elikolani Valiente on June 29, 1978, in Honolulu, Hawaii . Rosemary’s full identity extends beyond being a celebrity parent she is a woman of faith who raised her daughters with strong family values and cultural pride . Her father was a pastor, which deeply influenced her religious upbringing, and she passed these values on to her children.
Despite her daughter’s immense fame, Rosemary has remained largely out of the public eye, showing a deep preference for privacy over attention . She is known to the public only through her connection to Nicole and the rare glimpses her daughter shares on social media . Rosemary has never sought fame, choosing instead to live a quiet life focused on her family, proving that the most important influences often work behind the scenes.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Early Life and Hawaiian Heritage
Rosemary grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, in a deeply religious household, as her father served as a pastor in a local church . Her multicultural background includes Native Hawaiian ancestry from her father and Ukrainian heritage from her mother, giving her a rich cultural foundation . This diverse heritage shaped how she raised her children, teaching them to be proud of their roots and to understand the importance of family and faith.
Nicole has often spoken about coming from a long line of “compassionate, strong, and warrior women,” reflecting the powerful influence of her mother and grandmother . The Hawaiian culture, with its emphasis on ‘ohana (family), music, and storytelling, played a significant role in Rosemary’s parenting style . She made sure her children grew up knowing and respecting their cultural background, which later helped Nicole build a strong personal identity in the entertainment industry.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Marriage to Alfonso Valiente
Rosemary was in a relationship with Alfonso Valiente, a man of Filipino descent, and they welcomed their daughter Nicole on June 29, 1978 . Rosemary was just 17 years old when she gave birth, and she and Alfonso were very young to shoulder such responsibility . When Nicole was only two years old, Alfonso left the family entirely, leaving Rosemary to raise her daughter alone as a single mother.
The separation meant Rosemary had to face the challenges of parenthood without a partner, which she did with remarkable strength and determination . Alfonso was not part of Nicole’s life as she grew up, and little is known about their relationship or why they parted ways . Rosemary never spoke publicly about him, choosing instead to focus on building a better future for her daughter rather than dwelling on the past.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Marriage to Gary Scherzinger
After separating from Nicole’s biological father, Rosemary married Gary Scherzinger, a man of German-American descent . Gary legally adopted Nicole, and both Rosemary and Nicole took his surname, which is how Nicole Scherzinger got her famous last name . Gary became a true father figure to Nicole, providing the stability that Alfonso had not given to the young family.
Nicole has always spoken of Gary with respect, acknowledging the role he played in raising her. The couple built a life together in Kentucky and raised both daughters with love and care . Gary’s presence in Nicole’s life filled the void left by her biological father’s absence, and his decision to adopt Nicole showed his commitment to being a real father.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Children and Family Life
Rosemary has two daughters: Nicole Scherzinger and Keala Scherzinger (also known as Keala Leemon) . Nicole is her biological daughter from her relationship with Alfonso Valiente, while Keala is Gary’s biological daughter from a previous relationship but Rosemary raised Keala as her own . The family grew closer as they moved together and Rosemary remained committed to raising both daughters with strong values and love.
Nicole often shares heartfelt tributes to her mother on social media, demonstrating the deep connection they share . Rosemary treated both daughters equally and created a loving, supportive home environment . Her commitment to her family was unwavering, and she made sure her daughters knew they were loved unconditionally, creating a strong foundation for their future success.
Moving From Hawaii to Louisville With Her Family
In search of a more stable life, Rosemary, Gary, and their two daughters left Hawaii and moved to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1983 . The family did not have much to start with, and they struggled to make ends meet during their early years in Kentucky . At one point, Rosemary could only afford packet-mix pancakes for all three meals of the day breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The children wore second-hand clothes and were sometimes bullied at school, but Rosemary remained determined to create a better future for them . She took on whatever work she could find and made countless sacrifices so her daughters could have opportunities she never had . The move was difficult, but it laid the foundation for the family’s future stability and gave Nicole access to better educational and artistic opportunities.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Career and Working Life
Information about Rosemary’s professional career is limited, but some sources indicate that she worked as a clerk . She took on whatever work she could find to support her family through difficult times, always putting her children’s needs first . Her primary role, however, was always that of a mother and caregiver, prioritizing her daughters’ well-being over building a public career.
She made countless sacrifices so that her children could have opportunities she never had, and her hard work laid the foundation for Nicole’s eventual success . Rosemary never complained about her struggles, instead focusing on providing for her family with quiet dignity . Her work ethic and determination inspired Nicole to pursue her dreams relentlessly, proving that a mother’s example can be more powerful than any words.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Role in Nicole Scherzinger’s Life and Career
Rosemary noticed Nicole’s talent for performing from a young age and encouraged her to participate in school plays and talent shows . When the family could not afford theater tickets, Rosemary borrowed CDs of shows like “Miss Saigon” for Nicole to listen to, nurturing her passion for music and performance . This early exposure helped Nicole discover her love for music and performing arts, which eventually led her to become the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, one of the bestselling girls’ groups of all time with 54 million records sold globally.
Rosemary’s support never wavered, even when money was tight and times were hard . She believed in her daughter’s talent and pushed her to pursue her dreams against all odds. Without Rosemary’s encouragement and sacrifices, Nicole might never have achieved the global success she enjoys today, showing how a parent’s belief in their child can change everything.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Relationship With Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole has often described her mother as her best friend and biggest supporter . On Mother’s Day 2020, Nicole wrote: “Happy Mother’s Day to my mommy, Rosemary Elikolani. Besides our Heavenly Father, you know you are everything to me” . The bond between them is so strong that Nicole has called her mother her “miracle” and frequently shares emotional tributes to her on social media.
Nicole has said she comes from a long line of strong, warrior women, and her mother is the embodiment of that legacy . The mother-daughter duo share a deep connection that has only grown stronger over the years . Rosemary’s unconditional love gave Nicole the confidence to handle fame and pressure later in life, showing that emotional support is as important as practical help in raising a successful child.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Health Journey
In December 2020, Nicole revealed that her mother had undergone her second open-heart surgery just two weeks before Christmas . Nicole admitted it had been a “hard and scary road” but called her mother a “miracle” for surviving the operation . The family was able to celebrate Christmas together, and Rosemary recovered well after the successful surgery, even smiling in a video and saying “Mele Kalikimaka” (Happy Christmas in Hawaiian).
Rosemary showed remarkable strength and resilience during her health challenges, facing them with the same determination she had shown throughout her life . Her recovery was a testament to her fighting spirit and the love of her family who supported her . Nicole shared her relief and gratitude publicly, thanking everyone for their prayers and support during that difficult time, showing how much her mother means to her.
Why Rosemary Elikolani Keeps Her Life Private
Unlike her daughter, Rosemary has always preferred to stay away from the public spotlight and does not seek media attention . She is known to the public only through her connection to Nicole and the rare glimpses her daughter shares on social media . This desire for privacy reflects her simple nature and focus on family over fame.
Rosemary has never pursued public recognition, choosing instead to live a quiet life away from the entertainment industry . Her decision to remain private has allowed her to support her daughter without being overwhelmed by the pressures of fame . She values her peace and privacy above all else, proving that not all important people need to be in the spotlight.
Where Is Rosemary Elikolani Now?
Rosemary currently lives a quiet life with her husband, Gary Scherzinger, and remains close to her daughters . She recovered well from her second open-heart surgery and continues to maintain her strong bond with Nicole and Keala . She still appears occasionally in Nicole’s social media posts, showing that their unbreakable mother-daughter relationship remains as strong as ever.
Rosemary continues to be a source of strength and inspiration for Nicole, even as she stays firmly out of the public eye . Her presence as a loving mother is a constant reminder of the sacrifices and love that shaped Nicole’s journey to stardom . Rosemary’s quiet, private life is exactly how she wants it—surrounded by family and free from public scrutiny, content in knowing her daughter’s success is her legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Nicole Scherzinger’s biological father?
Alfonso Valiente, a man of Filipino descent. He left when Nicole was only two years old.
2. Who is Gary Scherzinger?
Rosemary’s second husband and Nicole’s adoptive father. He legally adopted Nicole and gave her his last name.
3. Does Rosemary Elikolani have any other children?
Yes, she has a second daughter named Keala Scherzinger (Keala Leemon).
4. What is Rosemary Elikolani’s age and date of birth?
She was born on October 12, 1960, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She is 65 years old as of 2026.
5. What is Rosemary Elikolani’s ethnic background?
She is of mixed heritage Native Hawaiian from her father and Ukrainian from her mother.
6. Where did Rosemary Elikolani move to raise her family?
She moved from Hawaii to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1983 for better opportunities.
7. Did Rosemary Elikolani have heart surgery?
Yes, she underwent her second open-heart surgery in December 2020 and recovered well.
8. Does Rosemary Elikolani appear in public or on social media?
No, she keeps her life private and stays away from the public spotlight.
Conclusion
Rosemary Elikolani’s life is a powerful testament to a mother’s love and sacrifice . From becoming a teen mother to overcoming poverty and serious health challenges, she never gave up on her children . Her story proves that with faith, resilience, and dedication, a parent can help their child achieve extraordinary success.
Nicole’s success is a direct reflection of Rosemary’s unwavering support and belief in her daughter . Rosemary’s legacy lives on through Nicole’s achievements and the values she instilled in her family . She remains an inspiration to mothers everywhere who sacrifice everything for their children’s dreams, showing that the most powerful influence often comes from those who work quietly behind the scenes.
