John Paul Stevens was born on April 20, 1920 in Illinois. His father, Ernest James Stevens, was a hotelier and lawyer. Stevens served in the United States Navy during World War II before attending law school.
After graduating from law school, Stevens clerked for Supreme Court Justice Wiley Rutledge. He then worked in private practice in Chicago before serving as general counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives and being appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
In 1975, Stevens was nominated by President Gerald R. Ford to the U.S. Supreme Court. He quickly gained a reputation as a moderate and independent thinker, often casting deciding votes in closely contested cases. Stevens served on the Court for over 35 years, making him one of its longest-serving justices.
During his time on the Court, Stevens authored numerous influential opinions on a wide range of issues, including civil rights, civil liberties, and environmental protection. He was known for his sharp intellect and commitment to upholding the Constitution.
Stevens retired from the Supreme Court in 2010, leaving behind a lasting legacy of judicial integrity and dedication to the rule of law. He was succeeded by Justice Elena Kagan. Stevens passed away in 2019 at the age of 99, but his impact on American jurisprudence lives on.
Stevens was married twice and had four children: John, Kathryn, Elizabeth, and Susan. He was a beloved grandfather to nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. In his free time, Stevens enjoyed playing bridge and tennis.
John Paul Stevens was a legal giant whose impact on the U.S. Supreme Court will be felt for generations to come. His dedication to justice and fairness served as an inspiration to all who knew him. Rest in peace, Justice Stevens.