Delaware Man Married to Former First Lady Jill Biden in 1970s Charged in Wife's Death

William Stevenson, 77, expected to enter plea in first-degree murder case on Tuesday

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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William Stevenson, the former husband of Jill Biden, is set to appear in court in Delaware on charges that he killed his current wife, Linda Stevenson. Stevenson was married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975 and later founded the popular music venue Stone Balloon in Newark, Delaware. Linda Stevenson, 64, was found unresponsive at their home on December 28 and Stevenson has been in custody since being charged with first-degree murder on February 3.

Why it matters

This case involves the former husband of a high-profile public figure, former First Lady Jill Biden, and raises questions about domestic violence, mental health, and the lasting impacts of past relationships. The death of Linda Stevenson is a tragic event that has shaken the local community in Newark, Delaware.

The details

William Stevenson, 77, is expected to enter a plea on Tuesday in the first-degree murder case related to the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson, 64. Linda Stevenson was found unresponsive at their home on December 28 and Stevenson has been in custody since being charged with her murder on February 3. He has remained in custody since the charges, unable to post the $500,000 bail. Court records do not list a defense lawyer for Stevenson at this time.

  • On December 28, Linda Stevenson was found unresponsive at the couple's home.
  • On February 3, William Stevenson was charged with first-degree murder in his wife's death.
  • On Tuesday, William Stevenson is expected to enter a plea in the case.

The players

William Stevenson

The 77-year-old former husband of Jill Biden, who is now charged with the first-degree murder of his current wife, Linda Stevenson.

Linda Stevenson

William Stevenson's 64-year-old current wife, who was found unresponsive at their home on December 28 and is the victim in this case.

Jill Biden

The former First Lady of the United States, who was married to William Stevenson from 1970 to 1975.

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What they’re saying

“'One hug from her and all your worries would disappear. The pain of losing her is paralyzing and the emptiness in my heart is an abyss.'”

— Christine Mae, Daughter of Linda Stevenson (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to accept William Stevenson's plea.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the lasting impacts that past relationships and domestic violence can have, even decades later. It also raises important questions about mental health, bail reform, and the support systems available for families dealing with the aftermath of such events.