Washington, D.C. — Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, has passed away at the age of 100. The news was confirmed by the Carter Center, the non-profit organization he founded with his wife Rosalynn. Carter died on Sunday afternoon at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. His son, Chip Carter, confirmed the passing, noting that it occurred around 3:45 p.m. local time.
Carter, who lived longer than any other U.S. president, had been receiving hospice care since February 2023 after a series of hospitalizations. His death follows the passing of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who died in November 2023 at the age of 96.
The cause of Carter’s death has not been officially released, though he had been battling cancer for several years. In 2015, he was diagnosed with liver cancer, which later spread throughout his body. The Carter family has a history of cancer, with several relatives succumbing to the disease, including his father, two sisters, and a brother.
Carter’s legacy is one marked by both triumph and challenge. As president, his single term was marred by the Iran hostage crisis and a struggling economy, yet he is also remembered for his dedication to peace, human rights, and environmental causes. His most significant achievements include the Camp David Accords, which brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, and his push for the protection of national parks and wildlife.
Following his presidency, Carter became a symbol of humanitarian work, founding the Carter Center in Atlanta and contributing countless hours to Habitat for Humanity, building homes for the underprivileged. His work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, as well as numerous other accolades.
Carter’s post-presidency was also notable for his involvement in global diplomacy and humanitarian causes. He was a vocal advocate for peace and justice, and his interventions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict often sparked controversy, particularly his meetings with leaders of the Palestinian group Hamas.
The Carter Center has announced that funeral arrangements are being planned, with services to be held in Washington, D.C. and Atlanta. His family has requested that donations be made to the Carter Center in lieu of flowers. The center also confirmed that Carter will be buried in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he and Rosalynn spent much of their lives.
A National Day of Mourning has been declared, and flags will fly at half-staff across the country. Carter’s death marks the end of an era, but his work through the Carter Center, Habitat for Humanity, and other humanitarian endeavors will ensure that his influence continues.
Carter is survived by his children, Amy, Chip, Jack, and Jeff, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. His passing leaves a lasting void, but his commitment to making the world a better place will continue to inspire generations to come.
Andrew Young, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and close friend of the Carters, paid tribute to the late president, calling him “a man who dedicated his life to serving others, a true beacon of integrity and compassion.”
Funeral Details for Jimmy Carter: As per the Carter family’s wishes, Jimmy Carter will be honored with public observances in Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, followed by a private burial in Plains, Georgia. The exact dates and details for the funeral will be shared soon, with family members encouraging the public to join in remembering Carter’s extraordinary life of service.
While his death marks the end of an era, the impact of his life’s work will not be forgotten. “People will be celebrating Jimmy Carter for hundreds of years,” said historian Douglas Brinkley, a sentiment shared by many who knew him. The country now enters a time of reflection, honoring the legacy of a man who spent his life dedicated to making the world a better place for everyone.