‘Steel magnolia’ | Tributes pour in for Rosalynn Carter
Rosalynn Carter died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023, at the age of 96 in Plains, Georgia.
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Tributes from around the world immediately began pouring in after Sunday’s news that Rosalynn Carter had died at her and former President Jimmy Carter’s home in Plains, Georgia.
Her death came only days after The Carter Center in Atlanta announced she had entered hospice care.
First Lady Rosalynn Carter walked her own path, inspiring a nation and the world along the way.
— President Biden (@POTUS) November 19, 2023
On behalf a grateful nation, we send our love to the entire Carter family and the countless people whose lives are better, fuller, and brighter because of Rosalynn Carter.
First Lady Rosalynn Carter walked her own path, inspiring a nation and the world along the way.
— Jill Biden (@FLOTUS) November 19, 2023
My love is with the entire Carter family, as they, and we, grieve our dearest Rosalynn.
First Lady Rosalynn Carter lived a life of service, faith, compassion, and unmatched moral leadership.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) November 20, 2023
During her time in the White House, Rosalynn Carter redefined the role of First Lady. Through her courageous advocacy, Mrs. Carter helped bring the issue of mental health out… pic.twitter.com/cqFka1iuKb
Today, we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman and dear friend of the King family and The King Center, former First Lady #RosalynnCarter. pic.twitter.com/Hh8v4V4UAg
— Be A King (@BerniceKing) November 19, 2023
The Atlanta Braves are deeply saddened by the passing of humanitarian and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Our thoughts and prayers are with President Carter and the entire Carter family. pic.twitter.com/o86II16utR
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) November 19, 2023
Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a meaningful legacy not only as First Lady but as a wife and mother. We will always remember her servant’s heart and devotion to her husband, family, and country. May she rest in peace.
— MELANIA TRUMP (@MELANIATRUMP) November 19, 2023
In late May, the Carter Center announced Mrs. Carter was experiencing dementia.
Rosalynn Carter’s life is a reminder that no matter who we are, our legacies are best measured not in awards or accolades, but in the lives we touch. We send our thoughts and prayers to Jimmy and the entire Carter family during this difficult time. https://t.co/lqgcusqIhy
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) November 20, 2023
You learn very quickly that there is no handbook or rules to being First Lady. Technically, it’s not even an official position. And while there are spoken and unspoken expectations that provide some structure, the role is largely shaped by the passions and aspirations of the… pic.twitter.com/MDOVk8NtR1
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) November 19, 2023
Our deepest condolences go out to the Carter family. First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated her life to helping others with compassion and grace, and was a model for us all. pic.twitter.com/t96sKscfxR
— U.S. Secret Service (@SecretService) November 19, 2023
We are deeply saddened to learn that Rosalynn Carter has died. She was a compassionate and committed champion of #HabitatforHumanity and worked fiercely to help families around the world. #HonoringMrsCarter pic.twitter.com/oJJhFmGhIr
— Habitat for Humanity (@Habitat_org) November 19, 2023
To be the First Lady is an unenviable task, but Rosalynn Carter handled it with strength and grace. She showed us what it meant to be a champion for the American people and a public servant long beyond the call of duty. We will miss you, Mrs. Carter. pic.twitter.com/fKiAVUDCSj
— Lynda Carter (@RealLyndaCarter) November 19, 2023
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH AND MRS. @laurawbush ON FORMER FIRST LADY ROSALYNN CARTER: pic.twitter.com/5PTkYstNCT
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) November 19, 2023
“A proud native Georgian, she had an indelible impact on our nation and our state and nation as a First Lady to both,” Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said. “Working alongside her husband, she championed mental health services and promoted the state she loved across the globe. Their marriage, spanning 77 years, stands as a testament to their enduring partnership. Like that marriage, her achievements will stand the test of time and continue to be celebrated by those who knew her best.”
https://t.co/KrWIYVTMz5 pic.twitter.com/ELLa9z4t44
— GA AG Chris Carr (@Georgia_AG) November 19, 2023
Rest in peace, Rosalynn Carter “Steel Magnolia”
— Christopher Webb (@cwebbonline) November 19, 2023
During the 1976 election cycle, journalists dubbed Carter the "steel magnolia" for having a fragile and feminine appearance that concealed a "tough as nails" interior.
[60 Minutes interview, December 1977] pic.twitter.com/DatcpoiN9w
With every moment, Rosalynn Carter showed the world the resilience of the human spirit. We thank her for serving the least of these + for giving mental health a voice in a damning silence.
— Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) November 19, 2023
My deepest condolences to President Carter and their family during this time of mourning.
Tricia and I lift President Carter and his family up in prayer as we mourn the loss of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Her impact on our state and nation will last for generations to come. Let’s all take a moment to reflect on her life as we mourn her passing.
— GA Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger (@GaSecofState) November 19, 2023
Rosalynn Carter was a great partner to a consequential President and helped to define the modern role of First Lady. She was gracious, warm - and determined.
— Eric Holder (@EricHolder) November 19, 2023
My thoughts are with the entire Carter family and especially with the President. pic.twitter.com/2LdluNlTUE
“More than 96 years ago a First Lady was born years ahead of her time who urged us to take our mental health seriously,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “She was Rosalynn Carter, and sadly she has passed away. Mrs. Carter worked side by side with her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, to make life better for people around the world.
“She never stopped advocating for mental health or the Equal Rights Amendment,” Dickens said. “She was an activist, author and humanitarian, traveled internationally as her husband’s envoy and was the model for the modern day First Lady. The city of Atlanta joins all of Georgia—and mourners around the world—as we honor the memory of First Lady Rosalynn Carter.”
Derek and I send our heartfelt condolences to the Carter family. President and Mrs. Carter have always exemplified the very best of who we are as Georgians and we are grateful for their example. https://t.co/hlwRIychbO
— Keisha Lance Bottoms (@KeishaBottoms) November 19, 2023
The SPLC joins the world in mourning Rosalynn Carter, who spent her life to helping the world. Her unwavering commitment to service and her tireless efforts by President Carter's side left an indelible mark.
— Southern Poverty Law Center (@splcenter) November 19, 2023
Let us honor her memory by carrying forward her compassion and empathy. pic.twitter.com/N0La0b8Frr
“Rosalynn Carter’s contributions to Georgia, the nation and to humanity, are unparalleled. She has lived an exceptional life of service, whether as the nation’s first lady, at home in Plains or fighting Guinea worm in Africa. Her years of activism around Habitat for Humanity, her efforts to raise awareness about mental health, and her unwavering advocacy for women and children cement her legacy as one of our most consequential, accomplished and historic first ladies of all time. Our prayers are with the former president and the Carter family during this difficult time,” Hank Johnson, who represents Georgia’s Fourth District said.
In a statement, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America extended its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Rosalynn’s family.
“Mrs. Carter’s work to heighten understanding and reduce stigma surrounding brain-related health issues, improve access to care, and connect caregivers with support changed many people’s lives for the better. The public announcement that Mrs. Carter was living with dementia by her family last May helped raise dementia awareness and remind the millions of American families affected by dementia-related illnesses that they are not alone,” the foundation said. “We wish her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her kindness and compassion peace and comfort during this difficult time.”
Our hearts are heavy today at Georgia Southwestern State University as we mourn the loss of one of our most prestigious alumni, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. (1/6) pic.twitter.com/e78D6a0r0b
— Georgia Southwestern (@GaSouthwestern) November 19, 2023
Emory University joins the world in mourning the passing of former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who partnered for decades with Emory, uniting her vision of a more equitable health care system with the university’s strengths in research, training & service. https://t.co/LRR03R6yFi pic.twitter.com/o7ABGHNRVz
— Emory University (@EmoryUniversity) November 20, 2023
On Oct. 17, 2019, having married 26,765 days, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter became the longest-married presidential couple in history (George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush previously held the record).
As First Lady, Mrs. Carter managed routine duties and special projects in her office in the East Wing. She attended Cabinet meetings and major briefings, frequently represented her husband at ceremonial occasions, and served as the president’s personal emissary to Latin American countries.
Thank you !!
— Mia Farrow 🏳️🌈 🌻🇺🇦 (@MiaFarrow) November 19, 2023
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter pic.twitter.com/9dBBIoyezm
First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated her life to serving others.
— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) November 19, 2023
America has lost a passionate humanitarian and champion for people all over the world.
My heart goes out to her entire family. pic.twitter.com/Zi8eQDlRiT
“A former First Lady of Georgia and the United States, Rosalynn’s lifetime of work and her dedication for public service changed the lives of many,” said Georgia U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff. “Among her many accomplishments, Rosalynn Carter will be remembered for her compassionate nature and her passion for women’s rights, human rights, and mental health reform.
“The State of Georgia and the United States are better places because of Rosalynn Carter.”
Read my full statement on the passing of First Lady Rosalynn Carter 👇🏿 (2/2) pic.twitter.com/fuItLmlI4M
— Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@SenatorWarnock) November 19, 2023
Our prayers go out to the Carter family on the passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. She was a role model for selfless public service & the Carter marriage was an example of a true loving partnership. Mary Pat & I pray for her, President Carter and their entire family.
— Chris Christie (@GovChristie) November 19, 2023
A great soul has passed. Rosalyn Carter, wife of President Jimmy Carter, passed away today at age 96. A humanitarian through to the end, she was a fierce advocate for mental health issues. She brought grace and kindness to the White House. She was a treasure. She will be missed.
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 19, 2023
“Beyond her influential role as a top presidential adviser, First Lady Carter stood out as one of the world’s foremost advocates for mental health care and the crucial role of caregivers in American life,” said Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. “Her unwavering commitment to these causes has undoubtedly had a lasting impact on our nation, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
“In these moments of grief, may we find solace in the enduring grace and strength exemplified by First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Her legacy will serve as a source of inspiration, reminding us to strive for a more compassionate and understanding world.”
I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
— Rep. Lucy McBath (@RepLucyMcBath) November 19, 2023
Her legacy of advocacy on behalf of those experiencing mental health challenges shone a light on the lives of so many.
I am sending love to President Carter and the Carter family.
I never knew the former U.S. First Lady personally, still, I am thankful for the blessing she was to our state, our country, and the entire world. A life well lived Miss Rosalynn, God bless! https://t.co/XfZdRrSbCp
— Rep. Chuck Martin (@Martin4GA) November 19, 2023
Keeping the Carter family in our prayers with the passing of our former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene🇺🇸 (@RepMTG) November 20, 2023
She was a special lady and Georgia was proud of her.
My statement on the passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. pic.twitter.com/GxBFrTltaD
— Rep. David Scott (@repdavidscott) November 20, 2023
My prayers go out to the Carter family today as they mourn the loss of Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. She was a light to all, a champion for mental health, leader in education, and will be deeply missed.
— Buddy Carter (@RepBuddyCarter) November 19, 2023
Thank you, Mrs. Carter, for your service to our state and nation.
All her life Rosalynn Carter dedicated herself to serving others. As First Lady she served our country with grace and kindness. My heart is with her love of over 75 years, President Carter and their family today. pic.twitter.com/StYOTnheik
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) November 19, 2023
Rosalynn Carter was a remarkable leader. Unwavering in her partnership with her husband, Jimmy, she built upon the work they did together by championing the causes of mental health, human rights, and the needs of children around the world. I was blessed to have been able to work…
— Al Gore (@algore) November 19, 2023
“Mrs. Carter’s unwavering commitment to public service and advocacy has touched the lives of countless individuals. Her tireless efforts in mental health awareness, caregiving, and human rights have paved the way for positive change,” said Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens.
Rosalynn Carter was a dear friend of Emory University throughout her time in public life. Her wisdom, determination, and kindness were evident in all that she did. We are grateful for her many contributions and proud to have partnered with her on historic work in mental health. pic.twitter.com/3dF1vUnJrj
— Greg Fenves (@gregfenves) November 19, 2023
Our sincere condolences to the family of Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, a passionate champion of mental health and caregivers, who passed away earlier today at her home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 96 surrounded by her family.
— GAGOP (@GaRepublicans) November 19, 2023
Georgia Democrats join our entire state, nation, and the world in mourning the loss of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter – an extraordinary humanitarian, fierce mental health advocate, and beloved daughter of Georgia. https://t.co/eXBHTxe5PF
— Georgia Democrats (@GeorgiaDemocrat) November 19, 2023
“I join those across the world in mourning the loss of the beloved former first lady, Rosalynn Carter, and send my deepest condolences to my treasured friend, President Jimmy Carter, on the loss of his dear wife and best friend of 77 years, a marriage that exemplified true love and partnership,” said Arthur M. Blank, Blank Family of Businesses chairman and owner. “Mrs. Carter represented humanity in every sense of the word through her selfless dedication of service to those around her. Her leadership at The Carter Center and personal passion around mental health has positively impacted an immeasurable number of lives, and her work will forever influence generations to come. It was a great honor to know her and learn from her while working alongside as a board member of The Carter Center, and I consider her one of the greatest role models of our time. May her family find peace in honoring her legacy and may we all spread the love that Mrs. Carter so passionately represented.”
“The Atlanta City Council extends our deepest condolences to President Carter, family, friends, The Carter Foundation, and all those who loved and admired First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Her humanitarian work led the charge for many organizations. She made significant contributions as the First Lady and in her subsequent advocacy work. We will never forget her impact on the nation and her public service, tireless fundraising, and advocacy roles for mental health,” a statement from the governing body said.
This story is developing.
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