The passing of Rosalynn Carter, the esteemed former First Lady of the United States and beloved wife of President Jimmy Carter, marks the close of a remarkable chapter characterized by an unwavering commitment to public service and advocacy. Her passing at the age of 96, surrounded by her loved ones, as confirmed by the Carter Center, marks the end of an era of significant contributions and indelible impact on numerous humanitarian causes.
It was announced Friday that she had moved to a hospice care facility in Georgia and is spending time with her husband, a 99-year-old man who has been in hospice care since February.
Rosalynn Carter, former US First Lady, speaking in New Delhi in 2006
Mrs Carter was diagnosed with dementia in May. The first married couple with the longest marriage celebrated their 77th wedding anniversary in July. Mr Carter said: “Rosalynn has been my equal partner in everything I have ever achieved. in the statement.
She gave me wise counsel and motivation when I needed it. Rosalynn’s existence ensured that I would always have affection and support from someone.’ Eleanor Rosalynn Smith gave birth to Mrs. Carter on August 18, 1927. She married Jimmy Carter on July 7, 1946, and the two had four children together. According to the Carters’ son Chip, she was a loving mother, an incredible first lady, and “a great humanitarian herself.”
“He will be greatly missed not only by our family but by many people who today have better mental health care and access to care resources.” She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, having lost a grandson in 2015.
When her husband entered politics in the 1960s, first as a state senator for Georgia, then as governor, and finally as president of the United States, Mrs. Carter became dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues and reducing the stigma attached to those suffering from mental illness.
As the nation’s First Lady, she assumed the honorary chairmanship of the President’s Panel on Mental Health. This panel was instrumental in passing legislation in 1980 that helped fund community mental health centers. She was also a member of the Georgia Governor’s Panel that worked to improve mental health services.
When she left Washington in 1982, she and her husband founded the Carter Center, where she continued to advocate for mental health, early childhood vaccinations, ions, and other humanitarian issues.
The two were heavily involved with Habitat for Humanity, a charity that builds homes for poor families. They were recognized for their humanitarian work when Mr. Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
In an interview with the US television network C-SPAN in 2013, she said: “I hope that our legacy will continue, more than just as first lady because the Carter Center has been an integral part of our lives.”
“And our motto is to lead peace, fight disease and promote hope. Plus, I hope I’ve had some small positive impact on mental health issues and the lives of those affected by mental illness.”
US President Joe Biden described Mrs Carter as someone who “walked her own path and inspired the nation and the world along the way” to pay tribute to her.
On X, formerly Twitter, President Biden wrote: “On behalf of a grateful nation, we send our love to the entire Carter family and the countless people whose lives are better, fuller, and brighter because of Rosalynn Carter.”
“When our family was in the White House, Rosalynn would join me for lunch now and then, offer some advice and always — always — a helping hand,” former first lady Michelle Obama said.
She reminded me that I should take responsibility for the role of First Lady, just like she did. I will always be grateful for her kindness and help.”
Both former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush referred to Mrs. Carter as “a woman of dignity and strength.”
“They set a wonderful example of loyalty and faithfulness, and there was no greater advocate for President Carter than they,” they said in a statement.
“He leaves behind an important legacy in his work to destigmatize mental health.”
The death of Rosalynn Carter, former first lady of the United States and wife of President Jimmy Carter, marks the end of an era of immense contributions to various humanitarian causes. Her peaceful passing at the age of 96, the Carter Center confirmed, concludes a life dedicated to public service, advocacy, and unwavering support of critical social issues.
During her lifetime, Rosalynn Carter played a pivotal role not only as First Lady but also as a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. During her time in the White House, she took on the vital task of raising awareness of mental health issues, working diligently to reduce the stigma associated with these conditions, and advocating for better mental health services.
After their time in Washington, Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter founded the Carter Center, a bastion of advocacy for a variety of humanitarian causes, including mental health, early childhood vaccinations, and peace-building initiatives. Their dedication to Habitat for Humanity, building homes for the less fortunate, exemplified their determination to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Her legacy extends far beyond political functions. The Carters’ humanitarian efforts have earned them worldwide recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to President Carter in 2002. Rosalynn Carter’s unwavering commitment to mental health and her contributions to destigmatizing mental illness serve as a lasting testament to her remarkable influence.
Her passing resonated deeply across the political spectrum, drawing heartfelt tributes from President Joe Biden, former President George W. Bush, former First Lady Laura Bush, and others. Their words of admiration and respect underscored Rosalynn Carter’s impact on the nation and the world, highlighting her strength, dignity, and lasting legacy.
As the nation bids farewell to a mental health pioneer and beacon of compassion, Rosalynn Carter’s life remains a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and unwavering service to humanity. Interwoven with a commitment to mental health and humanitarian causes, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to make a positive difference in the world.