Rosalynn Carter was a pivotal influence in the life of her husband for more than seventy years. It is with great sadness that we report the passing of this remarkable woman, who dedicated a significant portion of her life to advocating for mental health awareness and assisting those in need, at the age of 96 after a struggle with dementia, as stated by the Carter Center.

Rosalynn and former President Jimmy Carter commemorated their 75th wedding anniversary, earning the distinction of being the longest-married presidential couple.

The Carters were married on July 7, 1946, in their hometown of Plains, Georgia, where they commemorated this significant occasion.

They supported one another through all challenges and hardships.

In a statement, former President Jimmy Carter expressed, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in all my achievements. She provided me with valuable advice and support during times of need. As long as Rosalynn was present in this world, I was always aware that I had someone who loved and supported me.”

Throughout his presidency from 1977 to 1981, Jimmy Carter expressed to his aides, ‘Rosalynn is my closest companion… the ideal complement to my being, and likely the most impactful individual in my life.’

Roselynn served not only as the First Lady but also as her husband’s most trusted advisor, consistently supporting every decision he made in his role as the nation’s leader.

Following their departure from the White House, the Carters returned to reside in their family home located in Plains, Georgia. This residence, valued at $209,996 according to Zillow, was constructed in 1961, coinciding with the birth of their fourth child, prompting the need for a larger living space. Throughout their lives, the couple has consistently embraced a quiet and uncomplicated lifestyle.

In 2015, when he reached the age of 90, Jimmy faced a severe battle with cancer, yet his wife remained by his side to observe his remarkable recovery. At the same age, Rosalynn had undergone significant surgery, which involved the removal of a portion of her colon. Given her advanced age, the family was informed that the operation carried considerable risks; however, Jimmy stayed with her at the hospital overnight, offering his prayers for her well-being.

In the morning, Rosalynn arose, and Jimmy contacted his grandson Jason to convey the wonderful news.

After her surgery, Jimmy would bring her treats and massage her toes. A family friend from Plains, Jill Stuckey, remarked, ‘He truly was an exceptional caregiver.

In February 2023, when Jimmy was admitted to hospice, he discontinued his hospital treatment as his wife struggled with their separation, as reported by the Washington Post.

In their final days, the couple enjoyed their time in the living room, sharing blueberries in the morning and watching Law and Order in the evening. The last public appearance of Rosalynn occurred just before Jimmy’s 99th birthday at the annual Plains Peanut Festival in their hometown, where she was seen with her husband in a car, waving to the audience. Earlier this year, the Carter family disclosed Rosalynn’s dementia diagnosis. Shortly thereafter, she entered hospice care, spending her final days surrounded by family and her devoted husband. She could barely walk, relying on a walker, and her health had deteriorated significantly.

Andrew Young, the former mayor of Atlanta and ex-U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, remarked, ‘They were at peace with what was forthcoming,’ after visiting them in their residence earlier this year.

Time simply caught up with her,’ stated her niece, Kim Fuller, in an interview with the Washington Post. ‘She was becoming increasingly frail.

Despite their declining health, Rosalynn and Jimmy continued to hold hands. ‘It is difficult to envision one without the other,’ noted Stuckey, who spent numerous days with the couple. Young reminisced about his final visit to the Carters’ home, where the three friends engaged in prayer together.

They appeared genuinely content in each other’s company,’ he observed, mentioning that Rosalynn was subdued while Jimmy wore a smile.

It is unimaginable how sorrowful and heartbroken Jimmy must feel now that his wife of 77 years is no longer with him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this period of mourning.