Tribute to Rosalynn Carter: Former Presidents Jimmy Carter, First Ladies Gather for Memorial Service
Former US President Jimmy Carter, at the age of 99, made a rare public appearance on Tuesday to join President Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton, and all five living first ladies at the memorial service for his beloved wife, Rosalynn.
Despite a frail appearance, Carter briefly left hospice care to attend the service at a church in Atlanta, arriving in a wheelchair with a blanket adorned with a picture of his late wife’s face.
Jimmy Carter Biography: 39th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Rosalynn Carter, a humanitarian and mental health advocate, passed away on November 19 at the age of 96, concluding a legendary 77-year marriage that left an indelible mark on US politics.
The memorial service, attended by prominent figures including Biden, Clinton, and the current first ladies, paid tribute to Rosalynn Carter’s life and her groundbreaking role as a modern First Lady who redefined the position.
Carter’s son, James “Chip” Carter, described his mother as the “glue that held our family together” during the service, emphasizing her pivotal role in their lives. Amy Lynn Carter, their daughter, emotionally read a love letter written by Jimmy Carter to Rosalynn during his time in the US navy 75 years ago.
US country music stars Tricia Yearwood and Garth Brooks performed Rosalynn Carter’s favorite music, including John Lennon’s “Imagine.”
The diverse turnout at the service, including former presidents, current and former first ladies, highlighted the respect and esteem Rosalynn Carter commanded in the United States. Celebrated for her advocacy on mental health, her reputation flourished after leaving the White House, along with her husband, Jimmy Carter.
The private funeral in Plains on Wednesday will likely shift attention to Jimmy Carter’s health, as he is the oldest living US ex-president and has been in hospice care for the past 10 months.
The Carters, married in 1946, held the record for the longest-wed presidential couple. Jimmy Carter expressed that Rosalynn had been his “equal partner in everything I ever accomplished,” emphasizing her integral role throughout his political career.
As the nation pays tribute to Rosalynn Carter, her legacy as a trailblazing First Lady and dedicated advocate continues to resonate.
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