Rosalynn Carter Dies at the Age of 96

Image from John Bazemore / Pool via AP file

The world is mourning the recent death of Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady of the U.S and married for 77 years to former President Jimmy Carter.

The 96-year-old dedicated her life to public service, leaving a long and important history of commitment to serious social issues and causes. 

Rosalynn and Jimmy’s long history together goes back, even before their marriage, to 1927 when she was born.

In the small town of Plains, Georgia nurse Lillian Carter delivered a new baby, Eleanor Rosalynn Smith. Being friends with the Smiths and living in a town of only 600 residents, when Lillian brought in her 3-year-old son Jimmy, a lifelong friendship was formed.

The Carters not only served as leaders of our nation (1977-81), but also together helped build America as we know it. The couple began volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity in 1984, and created the Carter Work Project, which expanded the mission internationally to touch countless lives around the globe. In all, 4,390 homes in 14 countries have been built, renovated, or repaired by the Carters. 

Rosalynn also championed for mental health care in America. While Jimmy was governor of Georgia prior to becoming president, she began her decades of work to de-stigmatize mental health; she formed commissions, toured facilities, and spoke with doctors and staff.

Also, after leaving the White House the pair formed the Carter Center, adjacent to the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum in Atlanta.

The Center has worked to advance human rights, democracy, and public health worldwide through initiatives that include conflict resolution, disease eradication, and election monitoring. On the issue of mental health, the Center works globally to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and implement solutions by improving access to care and training, and promoting policies that support well-being.

Through her efforts, Rosalynn played a crucial role in helping millions of people lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. She will be remembered for her role as a leader, the wife of one of the nation’s most highly regarded ex-presidents, and for her love and empathy.