ATLANTA—Jimmy Carter, 39th president of the United States and winner of the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, died peacefully Sunday, December 29, at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. He was 100, the longest-lived president in U.S. history.
President Carter is survived by his children — Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosalynn, and one grandchild.
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” said Chip Carter, the former president’s son. “My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”
There will be public observances in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., followed by a private interment in Plains, Georgia. The final arrangements for President Carter’s state funeral, including all public events and motorcade routes, are still pending. The schedule will be released by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region at www.usstatefuneral.mdw.army.mil.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit the official tribute website to the life of President Carter at www.jimmycartertribute.org. This site includes the official online condolence book as well as print and visual biographical materials commemorating his life.
The Carter family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Carter Center, 453 John Lewis Freedom Parkway N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307.
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter:
“Jimmy Carter rose from humble rural beginnings to become a decorated Naval officer, a successful businessperson, and the President of the United States. He promised and delivered Americans the truth in a time of political division and mistrust.
“President Carter was one of the first Presidents to truly understand the value of protecting and preserving our nation’s public lands and waters. We owe preservation of premiere Alaskan wilderness and many other wild places to his leadership.
“We will be forever grateful to President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, for their dedication to Habitat for Humanity and the work they did to provide more affordable housing. My heart and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.”
Source: The Carter Center with the addition of a statement by Senator Maria Cantwell.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
