On Aug. 22, Judge Gregory Mathis’ wife of 39 years, Linda Mathis, filed for divorce.
Court documents obtained by E! News revealed the judge and Linda have been separated since July 17. She cited the reason for their separation as “irreconcilable differences.”
Now, after running into TMZ at LAX airport on Aug. 30, Judge Mathis is speaking out for the first time. “It’s the worst days of my life,” he said of the divorce.
“Maybe I’ll be the example for another man—a cautionary tale. Don’t neglect your wife. That’s what happens, guys,” the judge said candidly.
“Neglect can create suspicion, certainly,” he said, addressing rumors that he had been unfaithful in his long marriage. “If you’re gone as much as I am, she has every right to suspect.”
“You go to work, and you go to serve the community around the country. Then, you go with your guys to sporting events around the country and you go to other events without your wife,” Judge Mathis continued. “She would have a right to suspect infidelity.”
However, he was adamant that “that’s not the reason” for his divorce.
Judge Mathis and Linda married in June 1985 after meeting each other at Eastern Michigan University. They welcomed four children into the world during their nearly four-decade long union.
While talking with TMZ, Mathis admitted he and Linda have “maintained a friendship” since their separation and are still living in the same house.
In fact, Mathis said he’s “trying to get my wife back” despite her decision to file for divorce. “I have to show her that though.”
He’s hoping he can prove she is his priority before she “completes the process.”
“I’m changing,” Mathis said.