Former President Jimmy Carter, who was the oldest living U.S. president, took his last breath on Sunday at the age of 100.
Carter’s son, Chip Carter, confirmed that the former president died at his home in Plains, Georgia, at about 3:45 p.m. In February 2023, the 39th president entered Hospice care after a series of short hospital stays. In 2015, he had a small mass removed from his liver, and soon after that, he announced he had liver cancer that had spread throughout his body.
His death follows that of his wife, Rosalynn, who died on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96. They were married for 77 years.
Carter is considered one of the most respected and notable figures in American political history, primarily due to his post-presidential humanitarian work. While significant challenges marked his presidency, it is often remembered for its focus on human rights, energy conservation, and peace efforts. Before entering the White House, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and served in the Navy until 1953.
He served as the governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975, focusing on reforming the state's education system, improving race relations, and promoting fiscal responsibility. His tenure was also marked by his efforts to modernize the state's infrastructure and government.
One of the defining moments of his presidency was the Iran Hostage Crisis, in which 52 American diplomats and citizens were held hostage in the U.S. embassy in Tehran for 444 days after the Iranian Revolution in 1979. The crisis and the U.S. military's failed rescue mission severely damaged Carter’s reputation and significantly affected his loss in the 1980 election.
In 2002, Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize for his global peace and humanitarian efforts. He worked closely with Habitat for Humanity and personally assisted with several construction projects.
Carter is survived by their children Amy, Chip, Jack, and Jeff; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
President-elect Donald Trump reacted to the news, saying that the "challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude."
"I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers."
Outgoing President Joe Biden also grieved sentiments for Carter and his surviving family, saying that it was an honor to call the former commander-in-chief a friend.
"What’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well," Biden said. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe."
Vice President Kamala Harris echoed similar remarks, recalling Carter's "kindness, wisdom, and profound grace."
"Throughout his life, President Carter was strengthened by the love and support of his partner of 77 years, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, whose life President Biden and I had the opportunity to celebrate in Georgia last year," Harris said. "After leaving office, President Carter continued his fight for peace, democracy, and human dignity through the Carter Center. His life and legacy continue to inspire me — and will inspire generations to come. Our world is a better place because of President Carter. Doug and I send our love and prayers to the Carter family."
Sad to learn about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. I join all Americans in saluting President Carter’s lifetime of service—first as a naval officer, then as a senator in the Georgia legislature, then as Governor of Georgia, and, finally, as President of the United States.…
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) December 29, 2024
Pres Jimmy Carter was a man rooted in his faith The country grieves as we celebrate his life I had the honor of speaking at conf he hosted in Atlanta in 08 at his invitation We were bit by different political bug but hv much in common incl love of the Lord
— Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) December 29, 2024
We disagreed on many issues and how he ran our country, but his humanity is undeniable.
— Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (@RepLuna) December 29, 2024
Prayers for his family, and may God grant him mercy.
Rest in peace, President Jimmy Carter. 🕊️
Today, I join Americans across the country in mourning the loss of our 39th President, Jimmy Carter.
— Rep. Mike Collins (@RepMikeCollins) December 29, 2024
Born in a small town in Georgia, President Carter’s dedication to public service, leadership, humanitarian work, and Christian spirit touched the lives of countless individuals.… pic.twitter.com/ri6LuUCBXl
Through his decades of public service & charitable work, President Carter devoted his entire life to serving others.
— Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) December 29, 2024
Please join Ann & me in praying for the Carter family, their friends & all who worked alongside the former president.
After his service as 39th President, Jimmy Carter spent his time helping others. He partnered with Habitat for Humanity for decades, even volunteering to build homes in Nashville at age 95.
— Sen. Marsha Blackburn (@MarshaBlackburn) December 29, 2024
Chuck and I extend our condolences to his family during this time.
Tonight we will shine in Red White and Blue to honor the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) December 29, 2024
📷: captiv_8/IG pic.twitter.com/xIksQuUp68
Join the conversation as a VIP Member