Carter, 100, Passes

Former President Jimmy Carter, the only Georgian to serve as President of the United States, passed away peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. He had spent the previous year in hospice care. His death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to public service, humanitarian efforts, and unwavering faith. The longest-lived president in U.S. history, Carter was surrounded by his family in his final moments, according to the Carter Center.

His son, Chip Carter, released a statement expressing the family’s profound loss while celebrating his father’s enduring legacy: “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”

Public memorial services are planned for both Atlanta and Washington, D.C., to be followed by a private burial in Plains. Details regarding the schedule have yet to be released. The passing of President Carter comes just over a year after the death of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96. Their 77-year marriage was a testament to their enduring love, a bond that remained steadfast throughout his diverse career – from peanut farmer to president and beyond.

Georgia’s political leaders joined in mourning the loss of the former president, praising his dedication to the state and nation, his extensive humanitarian work, and his deep love for Rosalynn. Governor Brian Kemp offered condolences, stating, “Their family continues to be in our prayers as President Carter is reunited with his beloved wife and the world mourns this native Georgian, former state and national leader, and proud peanut farmer from Plains.” Senator Raphael Warnock hailed Carter as a hero and friend, emphasizing his commitment to social justice and his profound impact on global affairs: “President Carter was a Matthew 25 Christian. He believed…that the true test of your faith is the depth of your commitment to the most marginalized members of the human family. I believe he passed that test and has now graduated into immortality.” Senator Jon Ossoff echoed these sentiments, highlighting Carter’s commitment to democracy and human rights, his unwavering faith, and his profound love for his family.

Beyond his presidency, Carter’s post-White House years were marked by significant accomplishments. He became a globally recognized figure through his tireless work with Habitat for Humanity, even continuing to participate in building projects despite suffering injuries. His Atlanta-based Carter Center addressed numerous global crises and championed human rights worldwide, culminating in his 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his decades of peacemaking efforts and promotion of democracy and human rights. A prolific author, he was a Pulitzer Prize finalist and a three-time Grammy Award winner for his audiobooks.

Following his presidency, Carter and Rosalynn returned to their modest Plains home, where he continued to teach Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church for four decades, a testament to his faith and connection to his community. His decision to enter hospice care in February 2023 prompted an outpouring of support and appreciation from across the political spectrum. Even in his later years, he remained politically active, endorsing candidates such as Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Raphael Warnock.

President Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his single term in office, encompassing the Camp David Accords, the establishment of diplomatic relations with China, and the creation of the Departments of Energy and Education. His life serves as a powerful example of unwavering commitment to service, peace, and human dignity. The world mourns his passing, but celebrates the enduring impact of a life lived to its fullest.