Following his years as president, Ford remained active in the Republican Party. After experiencing a series of health problems, he died at home on December 26, 2006. Further information: Gerald Ford judicial appointment controversies. In 1975, Ford appointed John Paul Stevens as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States to replace retiring Justice William O. Douglas. Further information: Gerald Ford judicial appointment controversies. In 1975, Ford appointed John Paul Stevens as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States to replace retiring Justice William O. Douglas.