United States First Lady Rosalynn Carter passes away at 96

  • November 20, 2023
  • 12:03 AM

U.S. former first lady Rosalynn Carter, a stalwart life companion to Jimmy Carter and a pivotal figure in propelling him from rural Georgia to the presidency, passed away in Plains, Georgia at the age of 96. The announcement came from the Carter Center in Atlanta, which had revealed on May 30 that Rosalynn Carter was battling dementia. Despite facing this health challenge, she continued to enjoy life at home with her husband until transitioning to hospice care recently.

first lady rosalynn carter

Jimmy Carter - President and husband to former first lady Rosalynn Carter, was also in hospice care

Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in American history at the age of 99, has also been under hospice care at their home. Initially, the Carter Center – an organization started by Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter, had anticipated the end after Jimmy Carter discontinued full-scale medical care in February. However, his resilience has defied expectations, with the former president celebrating his most recent birthday on Oct. 1.

Below: Tweet about Rosalynn Carter's condolence by their organization The Carter Center

Jimmy Carter & former first lady Rosalynn Carter - How they got together

The bond between Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter was extraordinary, spanning nearly eight decades. Their union began formally in 1946, but fate played its part when Rosalynn was born, delivered by Jimmy’s mother. A chance meeting occurred days later when Jimmy, not quite 3, peered into Rosalynn’s cradle. Despite this early connection, 18 years passed before their paths intertwined romantically.

Below: A still of Rosalynn Carter and Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter & first lady Rosalynn Carter - What did they do post presidency

Their partnership, both personal and professional, flourished, earning them the distinction of the nation’s longest-married presidential couple in October 2019, surpassing the record set by George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush. Beyond their enduring marriage, the Carters shared a commitment to service and advocacy. Following Jimmy Carter’s presidency, they embarked on an exceptionally active post-presidential life, advocating for human rights, democracy, and health programs globally. Domestically, they engaged in hands-on charity work, including building houses for Habitat for Humanity.

First lady Rosalynn Carter - A fighter, patriot and true companion

US first lady Rosalynn Carter was a trailblazing personality, breaking the mold set by her predecessors. While championing the cause of mental illness treatment, she also immersed herself in national affairs and maintained a keen interest in politics. Describing herself as more of a “political partner” than a political wife, Rosalynn played a crucial role during Jimmy Carter’s presidency, providing valuable insights and understanding of political intricacies.

Born in 1927 in Plains, Georgia, Rosalynn faced challenges early in life after her father’s death when she was 13. Despite financial struggles, she excelled academically, becoming valedictorian of her high school class. Rosalynn’s journey to becoming the longest-living first lady included a teenage crush on Jimmy Carter and a pivotal marriage in 1946.

In their enduring partnership, Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter left an indelible mark on American history, both as a political force and a symbol of enduring love.

Below: US President pays tribute to first lady Rosalynn Carter

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