Kurtis Worley's attorney entered a not-guilty plea on all counts.
Worley, 33, is facing several charges, including first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery. Prosecutors say last month Worley stabbed his wife, 39-year-old Martha Worley, in the head as many as 10 times. He also reportedly slashed his 15-year-old stepson who tried to intervene; the teen survived his throat injury.
Worley is due back in court next month. He is also charged with attempted first-degree murder, armed violence and aggravated domestic battery.
Investigators say Worley attacked his wife of 11 years because he was upset she wanted a divorce. Worley is held on $3 million bond.
Prosecutors say Worley, by his own admission, stared at his wife's sleeping figure for several minutes before stabbing and pummeling her in the head. Prosecutors said Worley was upset that his wife, who'd asked for a divorce, refused to have sex with him "one last time." Worley also allegedly tried to kill himself.
"There are no words to explain what a big heart he has," Evelyn Villegas said of the stepson. "He risked his life for his own mom. He's amazing."
Neighbors said their main concern is Martha Worley's three children, aged 15, 12 and 9. A collection was started to help them out in any way possible.
"She came around (Sunday) with a sympathy card," Ilosvay said. "People are signing it and giving money. (I) talked to some neighbors across the street and they were crying, couldn't believe it because they are so familiar with all the kids and stuff."
A close friend of Martha Worley, who was with the family just prior to the stabbing, said in July the children were living with Martha Worley's sister.
As an organ donor, Martha Worley was able to save five lives.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
