Tributes Pour in for Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of former President Jimmy Carter, passed away on Sunday at the age of 96. The news of her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from around the world.
"Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished," said former President Carter in a heartfelt statement. "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."
Earlier this year, Rosalynn Carter was diagnosed with dementia. Despite her illness, she continued to live with her husband in Plains, Georgia, and received home hospice care in her final days.
First lady Jill Biden shared the news of Rosalynn Carter's passing while attending an event at Naval Air Station in Norfolk, Virginia. Biden praised Carter for her efforts in mental health advocacy, caregiving, and women's rights.
Former first lady Melania Trump also paid tribute to Rosalynn Carter in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a meaningful legacy not only as First Lady but as a wife and mother. "We will always remember her servant's heart and devotion to her husband, family, and country. May she rest in peace."
Rosalynn Carter was mourned by people on both sides of the political aisle.
"First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated her life to serving others," Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a social media post. "America has lost a passionate humanitarian and champion for people all over the world. My heart goes out to her entire family."
Republican presidential candidate and Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson on X honored the former first lady's "love of service."
"With the passing of Rosalynn Carter, our nation lost not only a former First Lady but we also lost a love story that inspired us all," Hutchinson wrote. "Jimmy and Rosalynn were a team in service to our country during and after the presidency. Rosalynn's support of mental health services and awareness is a reminder to us all that the challenge of mental illness is still a great need."
The U.S. Secret Service also paid tribute to the former first lady.
Remembering Rosalynn Carter
"Your compassion, diplomacy and penchant to make society better for those less fortunate was an inspiration for an entire generation," the agency said. "It has been our honor to protect and serve you for all of these years. You were truly a treasure for our nation and our Secret Service family."
The volunteer organization Habitat for Humanity, with which the Carters had worked closely since the 1980s, mourned Rosalynn Carter's death.
"We are deeply saddened to learn that Rosalynn Carter has died," Habitat for Humanity posted on social media. "She was a compassionate and committed champion of #HabitatforHumanity and worked fiercely to help families around the world. #HonoringMrsCarter"
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also remembered the couple's work with Habitat for Humanity.
"Together, through their Carter Center and involvement in Habitat for Humanity, President and First Lady Carter have offered a beacon of light to every corner of the world," she said in a statement. "Their beautiful love and partnership was truly a wonder for all to behold. May it be a comfort to President Carter, their children Jack, Chip, Jeff and Amy, their many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all of her loved ones that so many all over the globe are praying for them at this sad time."
"She and President Carter were an outstanding example of love and devotion to one another, and to others through their years of public service and extraordinary charitable works," House Speaker Mike Johnson said.
Jimmy Carter - Former President of the United States
Jimmy Carter, along with his wife Rosalynn Carter, holds the record for being the longest-married presidential couple in the history of the United States. Serving as the 39th president of the country, Jimmy Carter held office from 1977 to 1981.
