Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, known for her outspokenness and activism, has died at the age of 96. The Carter Center announced that she passed away on Sunday after a long battle with declining health and dementia. Surrounded by her family, she peacefully passed away at her home in Plains, Georgia.
Throughout her life, Carter served as a close adviser to her husband, President Jimmy Carter, and continued to be a powerful advocate for humanitarian causes.

President Joe Biden praised the Carters, describing them as a family that brought grace to the office. He spoke with the family and was informed that Jimmy Carter was with his children and grandchildren during this time. In a joint statement, Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their condolences and highlighted Rosalynn’s commitment to equal rights, mental health, and caregiving.
World leaders also reacted to the news, recognizing the Carters’ impact on global issues and their tireless efforts for humanity.
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Rosalynn Carter played a significant role in her husband’s presidency, going beyond the traditional first lady role. She attended Cabinet meetings, expressed her views on controversial topics, and represented President Carter during international trips. Some referred to her as the “co-president” due to her influence behind the scenes.

In her autobiography, Carter described herself as her husband’s best friend and the most influential person in his life. She was known for her political instincts and dedication to causes such as mental health and the elderly. Carter testified before a Senate subcommittee on mental health, becoming the first first lady since Eleanor Roosevelt to address a congressional panel.
After leaving the White House, the Carters co-founded The Carter Center in Atlanta, where they continued their work on various humanitarian projects. They traveled the world, building houses with Habitat for Humanity and promoting public health and democracy in developing nations.
Rosalynn Carter will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. Her impact as an activist, advocate, and compassionate leader will continue to inspire many. Ceremonies commemorating her life will take place after the Thanksgiving holiday.
The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, and the funeral will be broadcast on TV and streamed online.
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