Jimmy Carter, the nation’s 39th president, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 29, two months after turning 100 years old. During President Carter’s brief one-term administration (1977-81), he helped broker peace between Israel and Egypt. Still, his worldwide humanitarian efforts, post-presidency, best define the man who unselfishly gave himself to the nation and beyond. President Carter served in the Navy from 1946-1953, was the governor of Georgia from Jan. 12, 1971, to Jan. 14, 1975, and earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for finding peaceful solutions to international conflicts.
“This is a sad day, but it brings back an incredible amount of good memories. Today, America and the world, in my view, lost a remarkable leader,” said President Joe Biden during remarks in Christiansted, Saint Croix.
“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,” said President-elect Donald Trump on Truth Social.
“Whether it was his achievements in the White House or his post-presidential endeavors, President Carter’s legacy will always be one of great compassion for his neighbors here at home and abroad. The Carter Center’s work to advance democracy and economic freedom, protect human rights, and prevent the spread of disease is an incredible testament to his continued commitment to humanitarian causes. His Nobel Peace Prize, awarded in 2002, was well-deserved,” said Vt. Senator Peter Welch in a statement.
“President Jimmy Carter lived a life of courage, fortitude, kindness and grace. He was a giant who never saw anyone as smaller than himself. Whether at a Boys & Girls Club banquet or when he sponsored a medical clinic for the uninsured in his corner of rural Georgia, he lived James 2:17 each day,” said Georgia politician Stacey Abrams in a statement on X.
