Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Georgia’s only president, died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, at age 100.
His death comes a year after the passing of his beloved wife Rosalynn Carter, prompting an outpouring of tributes from Georgia’s political leaders and community figures.
Why It Matters
Carter’s death marks the end of an era for Georgia and American politics.
As the state’s 76th governor and the nation’s 39th president, the former president’s legacy encompasses both his political achievements and his extensive humanitarian work through the Carter Center, significantly impacting Georgia’s standing on the national and global stage.
What To Know
Carter, born in Plains, Georgia, in 1924, served as president from 1977 to 1981. His journey from a peanut farmer to the White House exemplified his commitment to public service.
After his presidency, he established the Carter Center in Atlanta with his wife Rosalynn, focusing on human rights, democracy, and health initiatives worldwide. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his humanitarian work.
Following a series of hospital stays, Carter began hospice care at home, opting to spend his remaining time surrounded by family and friends. Rosalynn, who was also in hospice care at their Georgia home following a diagnosis of dementia, died in November 2023.
What People Are Saying
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement: “Today, Atlanta mourns Georgia’s only President. My heart goes out to the entire Carter family here in Atlanta, across Georgia and our nation. I am so proud that President Carter’s legacy will continue to endure here in Atlanta through the Carter Center.”
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said on X: “Simply put, President Jimmy Carter was a good man. He was the epitome of a servant leader, changing the world and setting the highest example of what it meant to honor God, family, and country.”
Former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams said on X: “President Jimmy Carter lived a life of courage, fortitude, kindness and grace. He was a giant who never saw anyone as smaller than himself… Jimmy Carter built homes, saved lives and tended to souls.”
Georgia Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock said in a statement: “President Carter was one of my heroes. His leadership was driven by love, his life’s project grounded in compassion and a commitment to human dignity… Well done, good and faithful servant, well done.”
Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff said in a statement: “President Carter’s lifetime of work and dedication to public service changed the lives of many across our state, our country, and around the world… The State of Georgia and the United States are better places because of President Jimmy Carter.”
Georgia Tech posted this message on X: “The Georgia Tech community, the nation, and the world have lost a towering yet humble, hardworking man of faith who devoted decades to enhancing democracy and freedom, improving health, and preventing and resolving conflicts at home and across the globe.”
Georgia Congressman Buddy Carter said on X: “President Carter was an amazing Georgian and a firm believer in Christ. Today, he goes to be with his beloved wife, Rosalynn, in Heaven.”
Rapper and Atlanta activist Killer Mike said on X: “As a Georgian, Southerner and Advocate for who deserve the dignity of decent shelter i am honored to say I have known a ‘Good Man’ who truly made a difference in a wicked world.”
What Happens Next
Public observances will be held in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., followed by a private interment in Plains, Georgia.
The Carter Center announced that final arrangements for President Carter’s state funeral, including public events and motorcade routes, are pending and will be released by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.
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