Tributes are pouring in for former First Lady Rosalynn Carter who died at 96.
On Sunday, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden honored her in a statement, remembering her as a woman who “walked her own path, inspiring a nation and the world along the way.”
“Throughout her incredible life as First Lady of Georgia and the First Lady of the United States, Rosalynn did so much to address many of society’s greatest needs. She was a champion for equal rights and opportunities for women and girls; an advocate for mental health and wellness for every person; and a supporter of the often unseen and uncompensated caregivers of our children, aging loved ones, and people with disabilities,” they wrote, via The White House.
In their statement, the Bidens also honored Rosalynn Carter’s longtime marriage to former President Jimmy Carter, 99.
“Above all, the deep love shared between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter is the definition of partnership, and their humble leadership is the definition of patriotism. She lived her life by her faith,” the couple added.
Their statement concluded:
“On behalf of a grateful nation, we send our love to President Carter, the entire Carter family, and the countless people across our nation and the world whose lives are better, fuller, and brighter because of the life and legacy of Rosalynn Carter. May God bless our dear friend. May God bless a great American.”
Former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush paid tribute to Carter in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“We are saddened by the passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. She was a woman of dignity and strength. There was no greater advocate of President Carter, and their partnership set a wonderful example of loyalty and fidelity,” the couple wrote.
Their joint statement continued, “She leaves behind an important legacy in her work to destigmatize mental health. We join our fellow citizens in sending our condolences to President Carter and their family.”
“Kelly and I are saddened to hear of the passing of First Lady Rosalynn Carter. She and President Carter were an outstanding example of love and devotion to one another, and to others through their years of public service and extraordinary charitable works,” he wrote on X.
He added, “President Carter and the Carter family are in our prayers today.”
Following her passing, Jimmy Carter remembered his wife of 77 years whom he referred to as his “equal partner” in a touching statement.
“Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me,” he said.
In September, Jimmy Carter made his first public appearance with Rosalynn Carter since his admission.
“Beautiful day for President & Mrs. Carter to enjoy a ride through the Plains Peanut Festival! And just a week before he turns 99. We’re betting peanut butter ice cream is on the menu for lunch!” The Carter Center wrote in the caption of a video capturing the couple on X.
