Following the passing of his wife, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, at the age of 96, former President Jimmy Carter issued a statement.
Her passing was confirmed by the Carter Center, which also revealed that six months following her dementia diagnosis, she had been placed in hospice care. Together with Jimmy Carter, Rosalynn served as the First Lady from 1977 to 1981. After leaving the White House, she carried on her humanitarian efforts through the Carter Center.
Over the past year, Jimmy’s and Rosalynn’s health had declined. Jimmy Carter declined medical assistance for a number of health conditions, and in February he entered hospice care. Rosalynn joined him last week in hospice care following a dementia diagnosis.
Jimmy Carter referred to Rosalynn as his “equal partner” in a statement and acknowledged that she had given him sage advice and support during their shared life. The couple had been wed since 1946, and Rosalynn’s active participation and support in Jimmy’s political career as well as their personal lives served as a testament to their long-lasting marriage.
Less than 48 hours after Rosalynn Carter returned to their childhood home in Plains, Georgia, she passed unexpectedly. Rosalynn’s passing brings the couple’s lengthy and intricate journey—marked by support from one another and shared accomplishments—to a heartbreaking end.
