Former First Lady of the United States Rosalynn Carter died on Sunday, November 19, at her home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 96, the Carter Center announced in a press release. On Friday, the foundation that manages the image and legacy of former Democratic President Jimmy Carter announced it would receive palliative care at home.
“She died peacefully in the presence of her family,” the foundation said. The couple, married since 1946, forged what they both described as a “full partnership.”
Throughout her husband’s political career, who served as president from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn Carter focused on mental health and issues affecting the elderly. In 2007, she returned to Washington to urge Congress to improve mental health care.
“Rosalynn has been my equal partner in everything I have accomplished,” said the former Democratic president, who is quoted in the text. “She gave me wise advice and always encouraged me. As long as Rosalynn was with us, I knew that someone loved and supported me,” added the Nobel Peace Prize winner.
Jimmy Carter has been receiving palliative care since February 2023
At 99 years old, Jimmy Carter is the oldest former American president in history. He has been receiving palliative care in his home in Georgia since February 2023.
The couple married in 1946. When Jimmy Carter entered the White House from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn stood out for her willingness to get involved in politics. “She attended Cabinet meetings and key briefings, often represented the chief executive at ceremonies, and served as the president’s personal envoy to Latin American countries,” the White House website says.
Rosalynn Carter was also known for the work she did after leaving the White House. Together with her husband, she campaigned for human rights, democracy and health issues around the world while maintaining a remarkably reserved public image.