Former President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, passed away peacefully on Dec. 29, at his home in Plains, Georgia. Carter died at age 100, making him the oldest living U.S president of all time. His passing occurred 22 months after he entered hospice care and 10 years after he was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma. Following a series of hospital stays for a variety of afflictions, he chose to waive additional medical care and live out his remaining days at home.
Jimmy Carter served as the 39th U.S. President from 1977 to 1981. During his single term, Carter established his image as an international peacekeeper predominately through his mediation of the 1978 Camp David Accords which built a framework for a historic political agreement between Israel and Egypt. On his first full day in office, Carter pardoned all Vietnam War draft evaders as he promised in his presidential campaign. He reoriented foreign policy with an increased focus on human rights, negotiating the Panama Canal treaties and the second round of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks with the Soviet Union. He created an energy policy that encouraged conservation, included price control, implemented new technology and advocated for public engagement in the reduction of energy waste. Carter sought reforms to the country’s welfare, taxation, and healthcare although he struggled with these due to his poor relations with Democrats in Congress. Carter is also characterized by his time after office which he spent establishing the Carter Center, teaching at Emory University, and writing numerous books. Many Americans consider him the quintessential model of a post-presidential life since he remained engaged in social and political endeavors. Carter won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work to promote human rights, democracy, economic and social development, along with his resolution of international conflicts. “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.
Carter’s funeral took place at the Washington National Cathedral this past Thursday, the service lasting roughly two hours, was attended by colleagues, friends, and family. Political leaders from opposite ends of the spectrum came together to remember the life and legacy of Carter and pay homage to his work as a public servant. All five living presidents were present at the funeral including incumbent President Joe Biden as well as President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20th. Full of heartfelt remembrances and vivid anecdotes, the service was planned out decades prior, primarily by Carter himself along with his late wife Rosalynn. Carter’s grandsons, Josh and Jason Carter, gave personal tributes in memory of their grandfather. “He was the same person, no matter who he was with or where he was. For me, that’s the definition of integrity,” said Jason Carter. As per request of Carter, President Biden delivered the eulogy as his longtime friend and colleague of nearly 50 years. “Today, many think he was from a bygone era,” Biden said. “But in reality, he saw well into the future.” After being honored in Washington, Carter’s remains will be brought to his beloved hometown Plains Georgia, where he will be laid to rest next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter.
