Legacy of Rosalynn Carter: A Trailblazing First Lady's Impact on Politics, Humanitarianism, and Mental Health

Legacy of Rosalynn Carter: A Trailblazing First Lady's Impact on Politics, Humanitarianism, and Mental Health

 Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who served as a close advisor to President Jimmy Carter during his single term and continued their global humanitarian efforts for four decades, has passed away at the age of 96.

The Carter Place announced her passing on Sunday, revealing that she succumbed to dementia after experiencing a prolonged period of declining health. The statement conveyed that she passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at 2:10 p.m. at her rural Georgia residence in Fields.

In a heartfelt statement, President Jimmy Carter expressed the profound impact Rosalynn had on his life, describing her as his equal partner who provided wise guidance and support throughout their shared journey. President Joe Biden also acknowledged the Carters as an exceptional family that brought grace to the presidency, highlighting their integrity and contributions.

The White House released a joint statement from President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, recognizing Rosalynn Carter's role in shaping the nation. She was praised as a champion for equal rights, mental health, and the well-being of individuals, especially caregivers for children, aging family members, and people with disabilities.

World leaders expressed condolences throughout the day, acknowledging the Carters' 77-year marriage and their collaborative efforts. Rosalynn actively participated in Cabinet meetings, addressed controversial issues, and accompanied her husband on foreign trips, earning her the informal title of "co-president."

Jimmy Carter, now 99, remains at the couple's home in Fields after entering hospice care earlier this year. Known for her unwavering loyalty and political acumen, Rosalynn Carter played a pivotal role as a behind-the-scenes activist first lady. During a high-profile Cabinet purge, she publicly declared, "I'm not running the government," emphasizing her influence.

Many aides attested that her political instincts surpassed those of her husband, often seeking her support before presenting projects to the president. Her strength of character, contrasting with her seemingly reserved demeanor and soft Southern accent, led Washington journalists to affectionately dub her "the Steel Magnolia."

The Carters admitted in their later years that Rosalynn was the more politically savvy of the two. After Jimmy Carter's defeat in 1980, it was she, not the former president, who considered a comeback, expressing later that she missed their life in Washington.

In 1977, just months into Jimmy Carter's presidency, he entrusted her with a mission to Latin America, affirming his commitment to denying military aid to violators of human rights. Rosalynn also influenced the style of the Carter White House, opting for U.S. wine instead of hard alcohol and favoring square dancing and picnics over formal events.

Throughout her husband's political career, Rosalynn focused on mental health and issues affecting the elderly. As the honorary chair of the President's Commission on Mental Health, she testified before a Senate subcommittee, becoming the first first lady since Eleanor Roosevelt to address a congressional committee.

After leaving the White House, the Carters co-founded The Carter Center in Atlanta, continuing their philanthropic work. Rosalynn led the center's annual conference on mental health and raised funds for initiatives supporting the mentally ill and homeless. She authored books addressing the challenges of caring for elderly or vulnerable family members.

The Carters frequently embarked on humanitarian missions, supporting Habitat for Humanity and advocating for public health and democracy worldwide. In 2015, when Jimmy Carter's doctors discovered brain tumors, the couple feared for his life. However, with treatment, he announced the absence of remaining cancer symptoms.

Rosalynn supported Jimmy through subsequent challenges, including his hip replacement surgery at age 94 and his decision earlier this year to forgo further medical interventions and begin end-of-life care.

Jimmy Carter holds the record as the longest-lived U.S. president, while Rosalynn Carter ranks as the second longest-lived of the nation's most iconic first ladies, after Bess Truman.

Eleanor Rosalynn Smith, born on August 18, 1927, in Fields, was the eldest of four children. After her father's death, she took on significant responsibilities for her siblings while her mother worked part-time. Working in a salon after school to contribute to the family income, she graduated as class valedictorian from high school.

She fell in love with Jimmy Carter, the brother of her best friend, and they married in 1946. The couple had four children and navigated naval life, allowing Rosalynn to experience the world. Lillian Carter, Jimmy's mother, delivered Rosalynn when she was born.

After Jimmy's father passed away in 1953, the couple moved back to Fields, where they ran the family farm. Rosalynn actively participated in the business, contributing her insights, and they developed a strong partnership.

Functions celebrating Rosalynn Carter's life are planned after the Thanksgiving holiday in Atlanta and Sumter County, Georgia, as announced by the Carter Center. A public gathering on November 27 at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum will be followed by a private funeral and interment on November 29, with services broadcasted on television and streamed online.