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Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, a tireless humanitarian and Mental Health Advocate, passed away on Sunday at the age of 96 at her home in Plains, Georgia, according to the Carter Center.
A devoted partner to her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, she played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape and championed numerous social causes throughout her public life.
Born on August 18, 1927, in Plains, Georgia, Rosalynn Carter faced early challenges after the death of her father at the age of 13. Despite the hardships, she completed high school and attended Georgia Southwestern College. In 1945, she went on a date with Jimmy Carter, a childhood friend, leading to their marriage the following year.
Rosalynn played an active role in her husband’s political career, supporting him during his successful bid for the Georgia governorship in 1970 and his grassroots presidential campaign in 1976.
Known for her political shrewdness and down-to-earth appeal, she became an influential adviser to President Carter, even joining Cabinet meetings and serving as an honorary member on a mental health commission.
Rosalynn Carter’s commitment to mental health issues was particularly notable. In 2003, she expressed optimism about the progress in mental health treatment, stating, “Twenty-five years ago, we did not dream that people might someday be able actually to recover from mental illnesses. Today it is a very real possibility.”
In late May, the Carter Center made the revelation that Rosalynn had been diagnosed with dementia, and she entered hospice care at her home on Friday. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life that extended beyond her role as first lady.
The Carters, the longest-married presidential couple in U.S. history, continued their humanitarian efforts after leaving the White House, closely associated with organizations like Habitat for Humanity.
Rosalynn Carter’s legacy extends beyond politics; she authored several books, including a memoir and works on mental health. In 1982, the Carters founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit human rights organization, and in 1989, Rosalynn established the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving.
Tributes from political figures poured in, highlighting Rosalynn’s impact on mental health advocacy, caregiving, and humanitarian efforts. President Joe Biden praised the Carter family’s grace and integrity, while former Presidents Trump and Obama, along with other prominent figures, acknowledged her profound contributions to the nation and the world.
Rosalynn Carter’s transformative work in mental health and caregiving leaves a lasting imprint, and her legacy will be remembered as a beacon of compassion and advocacy for a better future for all.