Expressions of gratitude for worldwide support have been shared by the family of former President Carter as they mourn his passing at the age of 100 on Sunday.
In a statement released Thursday, they reflected on the overwhelming love and support received, noting, “Jimmy Carter’s family extends far beyond blood relatives.”
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They conveyed their heartfelt appreciation for the comfort and kindness shown in the wake of losing such an advocate for human rights, justice, and peace.
Americans from all political backgrounds expressed admiration for the late politician from Plains, Georgia, who made a remarkable ascent to the presidency through an underdog campaign in 1976, only to lose his reelection bid to former President Reagan four years later.
Following his presidency, he enjoyed the longest postpresidency in U.S. history, founding the Carter Center, a major entity in global humanitarian efforts, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Carter’s presidency is often characterized by economic challenges and the tumultuous Iranian hostage crisis, yet his successful mediation of the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel stands out as a major diplomatic achievement.
Former President Obama highlighted Carter’s “most impactful” postpresidency in a statement that praised the 39th president’s decades of commitment to his local church and the community at large.
“Some things were more important than reelection — things like integrity, respect, and compassion,” Obama remarked, emphasizing Carter’s belief that everyone is created in God’s image.
Long after his time in office, Carter dedicated himself to advocating for affordable housing, frequently constructing homes with his own hands alongside his wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in 2023.
“President and Mrs. Carter began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity near their home in southwest Georgia more than 40 years ago and soon brought worldwide attention to the need for decent and affordable housing,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International.
He expressed gratitude for the profound influence the Carters have had on Habitat and the families benefiting from their exemplary service, noting, “The Carters put Habitat for Humanity on the map, and their legacy lives on in every family we serve around the world.”
On January 9, thousands will gather to mourn Carter during his funeral, which President Biden has declared a National Day of Mourning. Starting January 7, Carter will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda for public viewing leading up to the funeral.
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” Chip Carter, the former president’s son, stated in a release from the Carter Center.
He added, “My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs.”
