In a poignant memorial service, former US President Jimmy Carter bid farewell to his late wife, Rosalynn, at the Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
The emotional gathering brought together members of the Carter family, former First Ladies, including Melania Trump, Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, and Jill Biden, along with President Joe Biden and Bill Clinton.
Jimmy Carter, the 39th US President, aged 99 and residing in a hospice since February, arrived in a wheelchair, seated in the front row as he said his final goodbye to Rosalynn, his beloved wife of 77 years. The ceremony was a somber yet heartfelt occasion, with tributes and reflections on Rosalynn’s remarkable life.
Chip, Jimmy and Rosalynn’s son, delivered a poignant tribute, honoring his mother as an “extraordinary First Lady” and a “great humanitarian.” He emphasized Rosalynn’s impact on mental health care and caregiving resources, stating, “She will be sorely missed not only by our family but by the many people who have better mental health care and access to resources for caregiving today.”
Amy, the Carters’ 56-year-old daughter, also spoke, sharing insights into her parents’ enduring love. She read a letter from her father, written while he served in the Navy, expressing his deep affection for Rosalynn. In the letter, Jimmy Carter wrote, “Every time I have ever been away from you, I had been thrilled when I returned to discover just how wonderful you are… When I see you, I fall in love with you all over again.”
Rosalynn passed away on November 19, entering hospice care two days prior, and six months after being diagnosed with dementia. Surrounded by her family, she peacefully left the world at her home in Plains, Georgia, at 2:10 pm.
Following her passing, Jimmy Carter issued a heartfelt statement, acknowledging Rosalynn as his “equal partner” and expressing gratitude for her wise guidance and unwavering support. He stated, “As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.” The memorial service was a touching tribute to a life well-lived and a love that endured for nearly eight decades.
RIP.
