He was a champion of peace and faith.
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away at the age of 100. Known for his devotion to public service, his charitable work, and his role as a Sunday school teacher, Carter’s death was confirmed by his son, Chip, in Plains, Georgia, where he had spent his final years. Born in 1924 in Plains, Georgia, Carter earned a degree from the U.S. Naval Academy before embarking on a political career. He married Rosalynn Smith in 1946, and their 77-year marriage remains the longest of any U.S. president.
Carter’s political journey began in the 1960s, and he became the governor of Georgia in 1971. He made history in 1976 by becoming the first Southern Baptist president, defeating incumbent Gerald Ford. His presidency included significant foreign policy successes, such as the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal treaties, and establishing diplomatic relations with China. Domestically, Carter focused on energy, environmental, and educational reforms, but his term was cut short by economic difficulties and the Iranian Revolution.
After leaving office, Carter became renowned for his humanitarian efforts, particularly his work with Habitat for Humanity. He also continued his role as a Sunday school teacher, remaining active in his church in Plains, Georgia, even as he faced health challenges. Although he remained a Southern Baptist for most of his life, Carter left the denomination in 2000, citing disagreements over issues like the ordination of women.
Carter was also an author, writing more than 30 books on various subjects, including spirituality, politics, and international relations. His views on issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and conservative Christianity sometimes sparked controversy, particularly his 2007 book Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, in which he advocated for a two-state solution. In later years, Carter also voiced personal opinions on social issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage.
In his final years, Carter faced health challenges and, in early 2023, announced that he would spend his remaining time at home receiving hospice care. His family expressed gratitude for the support he received, and Carter reached the milestone of becoming the first U.S. president to live to 100 in October 2024. His death marks the end of a life dedicated to service, faith, and compassion.
