Rosalynn Carter, Former US First Lady, Dies at the Age of 96

Rosalynn Carter, former First Lady of the United States and a prominent advocate for mental health passed away at the age of 96 according to the Carter Centre. Recognized for her dedicated efforts in mental health reforms and for professionalizing the role of the President’s spouse, Rosalynn was described by her husband, former US President Jimmy Carter, as his equal partner in all accomplishments.

Jimmy Carter expressed, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”

The Carters, known as the longest-married US presidential couple, marked their 77th wedding anniversary in July. Rosalynn, a humanitarian and mental health advocate, co-founded the Carter Centre with her husband after his presidency, focusing on global peace and health initiatives. Their joint efforts took them to various international hotspots, including Cuba, Sudan, and North Korea, where they monitored elections and worked on initiatives to combat diseases like Guinea worm disease. Jimmy Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

During her husband’s presidency from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn Carter played a crucial role in restoring public trust in the presidency following the Watergate scandal. Recently, she entered hospice care at home in Plains, Georgia, with Jason Carter, their grandson, emphasizing their family time. In May, the Carter Centre disclosed Rosalynn’s diagnosis of dementia, and further details about her health were not immediately provided on Friday. Former President Jimmy Carter, 99, began home hospice care in February after a series of short hospital stays.