Beloved Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, Humanitarian and Influential Partner to Jimmy Carter, dies at 96
Rosalynn Carter, widely known for her role alongside her husband President Jimmy Carter as a global humanitarian and influential partner, died Sunday at the age of 96. Carter passed away at her rural Georgia home in Plains, according to the Carter Center. The cause was declining health after suffering from dementia and months of health issues.
President Joe Biden commended Carter, calling the Carters “an incredible family” who brought grace to the office. He personally spoke to the family and received reassurance that President Jimmy Carter was surrounded by his children and grandchildren during her final moments.
Rosalynn Carter was described as being Jimmy Carter’s equal partner in all of his accomplishments, and it is known that she provided wise guidance and support throughout their more than 77-year marriage. She served as an advisor to President Carter, even attending Cabinet meetings and representing him on foreign trips. President Carter noted that she was “the most influential person” in his life.
Jimmy Carter trusted Rosalynn so much, that just months into his term, he sent her on a mission to Latin America to emphasize his commitment to human rights. Rosalynn was known for her activist role as the First Lady, championing equal rights and opportunities for women and girls, and advocating for mental health and wellness.
Although known as shy, Rosalynn had an iron will and was described as the more political of the two. After Reagan’s win in the 1980 election, she initially had little interest in returning to Plains, Georgia, the small town where the Carters were born, married, and spent most of their lives. However, she later reflected on rediscovering satisfaction from her life there.
Following their time in Washington, the Carters co-founded The Carter Center in Atlanta, where Rosalynn chaired the symposium on mental health. She also authored books about elder care and mental illness and joined Carter on humanitarian missions around the world. When Jimmy Carter battled cancer, Rosalynn stayed by his side and helped him recover from hip replacement surgery at age 94.
Rosalynn Carter led an inspiring life as a compassionate humanitarian and influential advisor to her husband. Her impactful contributions and influence will be deeply missed by the Carters’ family, and the nation.