Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2023, at the remarkable age of 100. He had been receiving hospice care since February that year, a testament to his resilience and the loving support of his family during his final days.
Just a few weeks prior, on November 19, 2023, his cherished wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away at 96, also in hospice care as she battled the cruel effects of dementia. In a poignant tribute to their lifelong partnership, the couple will be buried together at their beloved home in Plains, Georgia, a place steeped in memories and fondness.
The Carters spent over six decades in the same modest two-bedroom ranch-style home in Plains, Georgia, a house they built in 1961. This home remains largely unchanged, a symbol of their commitment to a simple, grounded lifestyle despite their time in the grandiose White House.
They embraced life’s little joys, often flying on commercial airlines and taking leisurely strolls down the main street. Jimmy Carter, known for his deep faith, dedicated countless hours to teaching Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church, a reflection of his values and devotion to service.
Nestled near a tranquil pond that Jimmy helped create, their home boasts a stately magnolia tree that was a sprout from a tree planted by President Andrew Jackson, imbuing the property with historical significance.
Following their passing, the National Park Service will transform their cherished home into a museum, preserving the legacy of their humble, yet impactful life together. Their gravestones will be set beside a graceful willow tree by the pond, symbolizing the peace and simplicity that characterized their years together.
The bond between the Carters was profound, infused with love and affection that extended to their family. They created a special phrase, “ILYTG,” which stands for “I love you the goodest.” This unique expression has been lovingly adopted by their children and grandchildren, further affirming the deep-rooted connections within the family.
The Carters’ legacy continues through their four children: John William “Jack,” James Earl “Chip,” Donnel Jeffrey “Jeff,” and Amy, as well as their many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward their values of love and service.
As First Lady from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn Carter redefined the role with grace and conviction, actively engaging in public policy and championing mental health awareness. She emerged as one of the earliest advocates for comprehensive mental health reform in the United States and tirelessly worked on issues concerning caregiving, human rights, and poverty—reflecting her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes.
Rosalynn was not just a First Lady but a trusted confidante to President Carter, offering her insights on various matters and frequently attending cabinet meetings. Their relationship was founded on a strong partnership rooted in shared values that emphasized service and compassion for others.
Even after leaving the White House, Rosalynn continued her advocacy, co-founding the Carter Center with her husband in 1982. The center focuses on addressing pressing global issues such as health, democracy, and human rights. Rosalynn remained a steadfast supporter of Habitat for Humanity, often joining her husband in efforts to build homes for those in need—a testament to their shared dedication to making a difference in the world.
The legacy of Rosalynn Carter extends far beyond her years as First Lady. She personified a life dedicated to empathy, service, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Her partnership with Jimmy Carter was more than a personal bond; it was a professional collaboration that left an indelible mark on countless lives globally.
Together, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter held the record for the longest marriage of any U.S. presidential couple, an astonishing union that lasted 77 years. Their journey began in childhood—Jimmy was three, and Rosalynn was just a newborn—before they solidified their bond in marriage on July 7, 1946. Throughout their rich life together, they raised four children and were blessed with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Their marriage was a tapestry of shared experiences that included Jimmy’s Navy service, his presidential campaign, their time in office, writing books, managing their family farm, and working tirelessly with Habitat for Humanity to build homes around the world. In a heartfelt interview in 2015, President Carter reflected on their relationship by saying, “The best thing I ever did was marrying Rosalynn,” deeming it “the pinnacle of my life.”
