Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and one of the nation’s most revered statesmen, has died at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia. Carter, who served as president from 1977 to 1981, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, just a year after the death of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, with whom he shared 77 years of marriage.
Carter, a former peanut farmer and naval officer, became the longest-lived president in U.S. history, surpassing the previous record set by George H.W. Bush, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 94.
Carter’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to service, humanitarian work, and faith. Throughout his presidency and beyond, Carter faced many challenges, from economic stagnation and the Iranian hostage crisis to the signing of the Camp David Accords, which brought peace between Egypt and Israel.
However, his post-presidential years were perhaps even more significant, as he worked tirelessly on global humanitarian issues through the Carter Center, which he founded in 1982. His efforts focused on disease eradication, democracy promotion, and human rights.
His son, Chip Carter, remembered his father as a hero and a beacon of hope for those who share his vision of a peaceful, fair, and just world. “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” Chip said. “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.”
Carter is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by Rosalynn and one grandchild. His deep commitment to family, faith, and public service left a profound impact on the country and the world.
Leaders across the political spectrum and around the globe have paid tribute to Carter, hailing his decades of service and unyielding dedication to improving lives.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden issued a statement calling Carter “an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian.” They described him as “a dear friend” and praised his “principle, faith, and humility.” “He showed that we are a great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong,” the Bidens added.
In a message of remembrance, former President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary Clinton, spoke of Carter’s tireless efforts for a better world, noting his work on global health initiatives, environmental causes, and his pivotal role in peace diplomacy. “Guided by faith, President Carter lived to serve others – until the very end,” they said.
Former President Barack Obama, whose own political career was influenced by Carter’s example, paid tribute to his “decency” and shared that Carter had “taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service.”
Even members of the opposition offered heartfelt tributes. President-elect Donald Trump expressed that all Americans owe Carter “a debt of gratitude.” “The challenges Jimmy faced as president came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans,” Trump said.
Republican former President George W. Bush also honored Carter’s legacy, stating, “Jimmy Carter dignified the office of the presidency, and his efforts to leave behind a better world didn’t end with his time in the White House.”
Public observances are expected to be held in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., where dignitaries from around the world will gather to pay their respects. A private interment will take place in Plains, Georgia, where Carter spent much of his life after leaving the presidency.
The Carter Center has asked for donations to be made in his memory to continue his work on human rights, disease prevention, and global peace.
As the world mourns the passing of Jimmy Carter, it also celebrates a life well-lived—a life of humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the service of others. In his 100 years, Carter not only shaped the history of the United States but also worked to heal the world in ways that will resonate for generations to come.
