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Jimmy Carter, 39th President of the United States, Dies at 100
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a global symbol of peace and humanitarian service, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100.
Carter’s death marks the end of an extraordinary life that spanned a century of profound change and service.
Carter, who had entered hospice care in February 2023, chose to spend his final months in the comfort of his hometown, reflecting on a life defined by humility, faith, and dedication to others. His passing comes as the world mourns the loss of a leader whose impact reached far beyond his time in the Oval Office.
A Humble Beginning
James Earl Carter Jr. was born on October 1, 1924, in the small farming town of Plains, Georgia. Raised during the Great Depression, Carter’s childhood shaped his work ethic and moral character. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, he served as a naval officer, specializing in submarine technology.
Following his father’s death in 1953, Carter returned to Plains to take over the family peanut farm, modernizing operations and transforming the struggling business. His return to Georgia also marked the beginning of his political career. Carter served in the Georgia State Senate from 1963 to 1967 and was later elected governor in 1970, gaining national attention for his progressive leadership during a period of racial tension and social change.
The Presidency: 1977–1981
Elected president in 1976, Jimmy Carter brought his message of integrity and transparency to the White House. As the nation’s 39th president, he faced significant challenges, including economic struggles, energy crises, and shifting international dynamics. Despite these obstacles, Carter’s administration achieved several landmark accomplishments:
Camp David Accords (1978): Carter brokered a historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel, a diplomatic achievement that remains one of the most significant of the 20th century.
Energy Independence: Carter established the Department of Energy and championed renewable energy and conservation efforts, laying the groundwork for modern environmental policies.
Human Rights Advocacy: He elevated human rights to the forefront of U.S. foreign policy, pressuring authoritarian regimes and inspiring global accountability.
Environmental Conservation: Carter signed legislation protecting millions of acres of wilderness, particularly in Alaska, preserving vast natural areas for future generations.
A Life of Faith and Family
Carter’s personal life was deeply intertwined with his faith and his enduring partnership with his wife, Rosalynn. Married in 1946, the couple shared 77 years of marriage, raising four children: John, James, Donnel, and Amy. Carter’s devout Christian faith guided his values and leadership, and he continued to teach Sunday school well into his 90s, inspiring countless people with his lessons of humility and kindness.
Carter’s personal life was deeply intertwined with his faith and his enduring partnership with his wife, Rosalynn. Married in 1946, the couple shared 77 years of marriage, raising four children: John, James, Donnel, and Amy. Carter’s devout Christian faith guided his values and leadership, and he continued to teach Sunday school well into his 90s, inspiring countless people with his lessons of humility and kindness.
A Post-Presidency of Unparalleled Service
After leaving the White House, Carter embarked on a post-presidency career that arguably surpassed his time in office in terms of global impact. In 1982, he and Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting democracy, advancing human rights, and combating diseases such as Guinea worm. The Center’s work improved the lives of millions, with Carter personally monitoring elections and advocating for peace.
In 2002, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. His hands-on contributions to Habitat for Humanity, building homes alongside volunteers well into his 90s, showcased his lifelong dedication to serving others.
Final Years and Legacy
Jimmy Carter’s final years were marked by health challenges, including cancer and other age-related issues. In February 2023, he entered hospice care, choosing to spend his remaining time at home with family. Despite stepping back from public life, his influence endured, with people across the globe drawing inspiration from his unwavering commitment to peace and service.
Carter’s death at 100 marks the passing of a statesman, humanitarian, and man of unwavering principles. His life’s work serves as a testament to the power of integrity and compassion.
Remembering Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter’s legacy is one of profound service, both as the 39th president and as a global humanitarian. His contributions to peace, democracy, and human rights have left an indelible mark on the world. For the people of Western North Carolina and beyond, his life is a reminder of the potential for one person to make a difference through humility, determination, and a heart for others.
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” said Chip Carter, the former president’s son. “My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”
As the nation reflects on his century of life, Jimmy Carter’s example challenges us all to serve our communities and strive for a better world. His story will continue to inspire generations for years to come.
A state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter will take place on Jan 9, 2025, at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., the White House announced.
President Biden has declared January 9 as a National Day of Mourning and ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for 30 days from Sunday.
In the wake of President Jimmy Carter’s passing, President Joe Biden declared January 9, 2025, a National Day of Mourning to honor the 39th president's extraordinary legacy. The proclamation encourages Americans to reflect on Carter’s life of service, from his humble beginnings in Plains, Georgia, to his enduring impact as a global humanitarian and advocate for peace and human rights. On this day, federal offices will close, and flags will fly at half-staff to commemorate a leader whose compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice left an indelible mark on the nation and the world. Read Full Proclamation
To learn more visit cartercenter.org/
WNCTimes
Image: President Jimmy Carter FB Account
