Date and circumstances of death
Jean Stapleton died on May 31, 2013 at age 90. Her official death was widely reported by reputable outlets at the time, and the date is supported by obituaries and authoritative databases. She died of natural causes in New York City.
Biographic overview and notability
Stapleton was an American character actress best known for playing Edith Bunker on the landmark television series All in the Family. Her nuanced comic timing and warmth made the Bunker household a touchstone in American popular culture. She continued working in theater, television, and voice work well into later decades.
Key career milestones
- Early New York stage work in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Edith Bunker on All in the Family (1971–1979) and subsequent Archie Bunker’s Place (1979–1983).
- Later television guest spots and stage appearances through the 2000s.
Death certificate and public records
Death records, obituaries, and Social Security Death Index entries confirm May 31, 2013, as the date. These primary sources are typically consistent for high-profile individuals with extensive media coverage at time of death.
Distinguishing fact from related credits and family
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of death | May 31, 2013 | Obituary, public records |
| Place of death | New York City, New York, USA | Obituary reports |
| Age at death | 90 years | Obituary and SSN records |
| Known role | Edith Bunker on All in the Family | TV credits and archives |
| Spouse | William Putch (died 1983) | Biographic references |
Common misconceptions and confusion points
Some confuse the date of Stapleton’s death with dates associated with her All in the Family run or with the passing of co-stars. Others mistakenly assume she died recently due to continued syndication and retrospectives. Clear sourcing resolves these confusions.
Legacy and ongoing relevance
Stapleton’s portrayal of Edith Bunker remains a benchmark for empathetic, character-driven comedy. Archives, retrospectives, and academic discussions continue to reference her work, ensuring the date of her death is contextualized within a lasting career rather than an isolated event.