ATLANTA — Past and present leaders of the nation are pausing to honor the life and legacy of former first lady Rosalynn Carter.
The Carter Center shared Sunday, Nov. 19, that she died peacefully with family by her side in Plains, Georgia. The news of her passing came just two days after the organization shared that the 96-year-old was being placed in hospice care at home.
President Joe Biden
President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden shared their condolences Sunday in a joint statement.
"Time and time again, during the more than four decades of our friendship – through rigors of campaigns, through the darkness of deep and profound loss – we always felt the hope, warmth, and optimism of Rosalynn Carter. She will always be in our hearts," the statement reads in part.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden
In Norfolk, as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden spoke to a crowd, she also mentioned the former first lady's passing and said she hopes "during the holidays you'll consider, include the Carter family in your prayers."
Former First Lady Michelle Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama opened up in a statement about Carter's character, faith and commitment to service.
"When our family was in the White House, every so often, Rosalynn would join me for lunch, offering a few words of advice and always — always — a helping hand. She reminded me to make the role of First Lady my own, just like she did. I’ll always remain grateful for her support and her generosity," she said. "Today, Barack and I join the world in celebrating the remarkable legacy of a First Lady, philanthropist, and advocate who dedicated her life to lifting up others."
Former President Donald Trump
The Associated Press reported former President Donald Trump posted on the Truth Social platform that Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a legacy.
“From her days as a U.S. Navy spouse, to the Georgia Governor’s Mansion, to her tenure as First Lady of the United States, and her later work at the Carter Center and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, she leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishment and national service," he said.
Former First Lady Melania Trump
Former First Lady Melania Trump said she would always remember Carter's servant's heart.
"Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a meaningful legacy not only as First Lady but as a wife and mother," she said. "We will always remember her servant’s heart and devotion to her husband, family, and country. May she rest in peace."
The Clintons
The Clintons shared a joint statement and admired her "unwavering voice for the overlooked and underrepresented."
"Rosalynn will be forever remembered as the embodiment of a life lived with purpose. Hillary and I are deeply grateful for her extraordinary service to our nation and world, and for more than forty years of friendship. Our prayers are with President Carter, Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy and the entire Carter family," the statement reads in part.
Former President George W. Bush and family
The Bush family called Mrs. Carter 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 statement reads. "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.
