Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. He was 100 years old, making him the longest-lived president in U.S. history ¹.
Carter's legacy is a testament to his tireless commitment to public service, human rights, and world peace. Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter grew up in a family of modest means and was raised with strong values of hard work, compassion, and integrity ².
*Early Life and Education*
Carter attended the United States Naval Academy, graduating in 1946 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He served in the U.S. Navy's submarine service from 1946 to 1953, rising to the rank of lieutenant ².
After leaving the Navy, Carter returned to Plains to take over his family's peanut farm. He later became involved in local politics, serving in the Georgia State Senate from 1963 to 1967 and as Governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975 ².
*Presidency and Post-Presidency*
Carter's presidency, which spanned from 1977 to 1981, was marked by significant accomplishments, including the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal Treaties, and the creation of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of Education ².
After losing his re-election bid in 1980, Carter went on to establish the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and global health. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts to promote peace and human rights ¹.
*Personal Life*
Carter was married to Rosalynn Smith Carter for 77 years, until her passing in 2023. He is survived by his children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren ¹.
*Tributes and Legacy*
Carter's passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from world leaders, politicians, and ordinary citizens. His legacy as a champion of human rights, democracy, and world peace will continue to inspire generations to come.
In the words of his son, Chip Carter, "My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love" ¹.
*Funeral Arrangements*
A state funeral will be held to honor President Carter's life and legacy. The final arrangements, including public observances in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., and a private interment in Plains, Georgia, are still pending ¹.
As the world mourns the passing of Jimmy Carter, we remember his remarkable life, his tireless commitment to public service, and his enduring legacy as a champion of human rights and world peace.
