A renowned humanitarian, philanthropist and pioneer in the pursuit of peace, Rosalynn Carter passed away at 96, leaving a legacy of justice.

Article by Juliana Morgan, Senior White House Correspondent

PLAINS, Ga. - Rosalynn Carter, former first lady and beloved philanthropist, feminist and politician, died Sunday at the age of 96 after a courageous battle with dementia.

Born in Plains, Georgia, on August 18, 1927, Eleanor Rosalynn Carter tirelessly championed human rights, social justice, and other humanitarian causes. Rosalynn’s enduring kindness left an indelible mark on presidential administrations and countless American lives.

Rosalynn cherished time with her husband—former president Jimmy Carter—their four children and an inspiring mix of 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her profound compassion manifested through her faith and leadership within the Baptist church.

An influential asset to her husband, Rosalynn guided the administration with grace, assumed substantive policy roles, and stimulated social justice discourse. During the Carter administration, she attended Cabinet meetings and hosted seminars to address unemployment.

As an honorary chair of the President’s Commission on Mental Health, Rosalynn actively worked to reduce stigmas surrounding mental health and disability. She recognized the power of honest journalism and initiated the Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism, supporting well-versed, accurate reporting to combat stigmas.

Rosalynn demonstrated deep empathy for the disabled, elderly and ill. She founded the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers (RCI) to acknowledge and support often-overlooked caregivers. Additionally, the Carters’ efforts towards Habitat for Humanity earned Jimmy Carter the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.

The former first lady’s legacy endures through The Carter Center, a charity founded by the Carters in 1982. This organization advocates for health, peace, freedom and democracy.

Rosalynn’s humanitarian devotion continues to transform people and the world. Her spirit lives on in all the lives she touched.