Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter passes away at age 96

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, a dedicated advocate for mental health, caregiving, and women’s rights, peacefully passed away on Sunday, Nov. 19, at 2:10 p.m. She was surrounded by her family at her residence in Plains, Georgia. Carter was 96 years old. 

Mrs. Carter’s impact on the nation and beyond is profound. Throughout her remarkable life, the former first lady was a steadfast partner to her husband, Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, with whom she shared 77 years of marriage. President Carter expressed, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. 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.”

Chip Carter, one of her children, reflected on her life of service and compassion, stating, “Besides being a loving mother and extraordinary First Lady, my mother was a great humanitarian in her own right. Her life of service and compassion was an example for all Americans. She will be sorely missed not only by our family but by the many people who have better mental health care and access to resources for caregiving today.”

Carter is survived by her children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—along with 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Details regarding memorial events and funeral ceremonies will be promptly shared with the media and posted on www.rosalynncartertribute.org. This tribute website serves as a platform for the family’s official online condolence book, opportunities for memorial gifts, and features an official biography alongside downloadable photos, allowing individuals to pay their respects to this remarkable woman.