Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, champion of peace and humanitarian causes, dies at 100 in Georgia, surrounded by family and leaving lasting legacy.
Leaders across the political spectrum, including former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, are offering their remembrances and tributes to Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, who has passed away at 100 years old.
According to a statement from the Carter Center on Dec. 29, Jimmy Carter, who held the distinction of being the longest-living U.S. president, died peacefully at his residence in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family members.
The Center announced that public ceremonies will be held in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., while a private funeral service will take place in Plains, Georgia. The details regarding the state funeral arrangements will be announced in the future.
The passing of Jimmy Carter follows roughly a year after the death of his beloved wife Rosalynn Carter, who died at age 96 in November 2023 after sharing 77 years of marriage with him. Their legacy continues through their four children: John "Jack" Carter, James "Chip" Carter, Donnel "Jeff" Carter and Amy Carter.
James "Chip" Carter reflected on his father's passing, stating, "My father exemplified heroism not just for me, but for all who champion peace, human rights, and selfless love. Through these shared values, my siblings and I watched as he touched lives far beyond our family."
He continued, "His ability to unite people has made the world our extended family, and we're grateful to all who honor his memory by carrying forward these shared ideals."
Joining James "Chip" Carter in commemorating the former president's enduring impact were numerous Washington figures, distinguished politicians, and former leaders.
An official statement was released by the White House on behalf of President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden.
"The world has lost a remarkable leader, statesman, and humanitarian today," they said in their opening remarks.
"His character, courage, hope and optimism were extraordinary. The sight of Jimmy and Rosalynn together will forever remain in our hearts. Their love epitomized true partnership, while their modest leadership embodied genuine patriotism," they continued. "Though we'll deeply miss them both, we find comfort knowing they're together again and will forever remain in our hearts. We extend our gratitude to the Carter family for sharing them with our nation and the world. To those who served alongside them from the beginning to the end - we know you'll continue advancing their legacy through your good works."
Taking to X, former president Barack Obama shared thoughts from himself and former first lady Michelle Obama: "Through his life, President Carter showed us the meaning of grace, dignity, justice, and service. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Carter family and all those who found inspiration and wisdom in this remarkable man." He included an extended tribute highlighting the president's political accomplishments and religious devotion.
Former president Bill Clinton also posted on X, speaking for himself and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
In his message, Bill Clinton noted, "Hillary and I first encountered President Carter in 1975 and gave our early support to his Presidential campaign. It was a proud moment to present both him and Rosalynn with the Medal of Freedom in 1999, and to collaborate with him after his presidency." The post featured an image showing Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter seated together.
On Truth Social, President-elect Donald Trump shared his thoughts on Jimmy Carter's presidency. His message included: "Jimmy faced crucial challenges during his presidency at a critical moment for our nation, and he gave everything to enhance Americans' lives. We all owe him our thanks. During this difficult period, Melania and I extend our warm thoughts to the Carter Family and their loved ones. We encourage everyone to keep them in their prayers."
The Empire State Building's social media team announced on X that the iconic structure would display red, white and blue lighting to honor Jimmy Carter's life and legacy.
On X, Representative Nancy Pelosi praised Jimmy Carter's lifetime of public service. She emphasized that "President Carter's public service was fundamentally driven by his deep commitment to recognizing the divine spark in every individual."
"This commitment guided his actions: from teaching Sunday school at his cherished (Maranatha) Baptist Church, to negotiating the groundbreaking Camp David Accords for peace, to building homes through Habitat for Humanity." She also recognized his devoted relationship with his wife.
Former Georgia State Representative and activist Stacey Abrams shared two photographs on X showing her and the late president exchanging smiles and handshakes at a 2018 press conference. She described Jimmy Carter's life as one marked by "courage, fortitude, kindness and grace."
She added, "Though a giant in stature, he never made others feel small. From attending Boys & Girls Club events to establishing a medical clinic for uninsured residents in his rural Georgia community, he lived out James 2:17 daily. Jimmy Carter was a builder of homes, a saver of lives, and a tender of souls. May God bless President Carter, and may his and Mrs. Carter's family find solace during their time of mourning."