What began with an unexpected phone call in 1975 has evolved into a love story spanning nearly five decades, told through 28 pictures.
From campaign trails to quiet nights at home, Joe and Jill Biden have stood by each other through every chapter. As they celebrate 48 years of marriage, here’s a look back at some of their most touching moments over the years.
Young Love
“How did you get this number?” — Jill recalled the first words she ever said to Joe, shown here in a sweet moment from the early days of their courtship.
Meet the Newlyweds
Jill’s take on the “how it started” meme ahead of the couple’s 1977 wedding. The lovebirds tied the knot at the chapel at the Church Center for the United Nations in New York City.
Show of Support
Then a senator — during the late 1980s, Joe and Jill were often seen side by side, whether dressed to the nines or sharing warm moments on a campaign trail.
Graduation Day
Graduation Day — surrounded by family, Jill beamed in her cap and gown as Joe stood proudly by her side, a steadfast supporter of her ambitions from the very beginning.
Sharing a Dance
A dance to remember — at the 2013 Inaugural Ball, Joe and Jill shared a joyful twirl under the spotlight.
Better together
Everything is better when you’re around — relaxed and radiant in their garden, Joe and Jill shared a peaceful moment with their German Shepherd.
“Happy birthday, my love”
In a tender birthday tribute, Joe celebrated Jill with heartfelt words and a cozy dinner moment. “Happy birthday to the love of my life and the life of my love,” he wrote.
Family
Surrounded by beaming smiles and twinkling lights, Joe and Jill celebrated Christmas in 2019 with their loved ones, sending festive cheer from their family to others.
Laughter and love
Joy in Wilmington — on the final night of the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Joe and Jill lit up the stage with laughter and love.
Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day — both beaming with affection, Joe celebrated the holiday with a heartfelt tribute and a warm embrace, marking decades of unwavering love.
A new chapter
A new chapter — on January 20, 2021, Joe and Jill waved from the North Portico as they arrived at the White House, stepping into their former historic roles as president and first lady.
Family first
Family first — just moments after being sworn in, Joe and Jill shared an emotional embrace with their children, Hunter and Ashley, capturing the deep bond at the heart of their journey.
A new year, together
A new year, together — with fireworks lighting up the night sky, Joe and Jill welcomed 2022 arm in arm on the White House balcony, looking ahead with unity.
Hand in hand
Hand in hand on the South Lawn, Joe and Jill made their way toward Marine One on an October morning in 2024, a symbol of unity and enduring companionship.
A kiss of support
A kiss of support — during the inaugural White House conference on women’s health research in December 2024, Joe and Jill paused for a sweet moment of affection.
White House Final Photo
White House Final Photo — on their last day at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Joe and Jill paused for one final selfie, smiling brightly in the winter sun as they bid farewell to a chapter of service and love.
Together through it all
Together through it all — in a quiet moment at home, Joe Biden and Jill sat close with their cat, reflecting on strength, healing, and the love that carries them through life’s hardest chapters.