20-11-2023 (WASHINGTON) Former US first lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of former president Jimmy Carter, passed away on November 19 at the age of 96 at the couple’s home in Plains, Georgia. Known for her advocacy work and maintaining a notably humble public image, Mrs. Carter had been diagnosed with dementia in May and had joined her husband in at-home hospice care on November 17.
The Carter Center, the nonprofit organization founded by the couple, announced her death in a statement, describing Mrs. Carter as “a passionate champion of mental health, caregiving, and women’s rights.”
Former President Jimmy Carter paid tribute to his wife, saying, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”
Throughout Jimmy Carter’s political career, Mrs. Carter played a central role in his campaigns. During their time in the White House from 1977 to 1981, she stood out as a first lady actively involved in policymaking. Mrs. Carter attended Cabinet meetings, represented the Chief Executive at ceremonial occasions, and served as the president’s personal emissary to Latin American countries.
Born in Plains on August 18, 1927, Mrs. Carter worked alongside her mother as a dressmaker after her father’s death when she was 13. She met Jimmy Carter in 1945 while in college, and they married in 1946, holding records for the longest-wed presidential couple and, for Jimmy Carter, the oldest living US president.
Mrs. Carter’s legacy extends beyond her role as a first lady; she was a great humanitarian and advocate. She leaves behind four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
The Carter family announced in February that Jimmy Carter had entered hospice care at their modest house in Plains, where they have lived since the 1960s. Despite health challenges, the former president has continued to welcome visitors, stay updated on the Carter Center’s humanitarian work, and enjoy ice cream frequently.
