ATLANTA — Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady and one-half of the longest presidential marriage in U.S. history, who was a pillar of her husband’s presidency and a trailblazing mental health advocate, has died at the age of 96.
According to a release from the Carter Center, she died peacefully, with family by her side.
State and local leaders across Georgia and the nation at large are sending their condolences Sunday and reflecting on Rosalynn's incredible legacy.
You can read the running list of reactions below:
Jason Carter, grandson of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter
"With heavy hearts my family and I inform you of my grandmother’s passing. One of the greatest legacies she leaves behind is The Carter Center, and her work there would not have been possible without you. She has been grateful for your support of her remarkable efforts to improve the welfare of people everywhere, whether by working to eradicate diseases, reducing the stigma of mental illnesses, or bringing peace to far corners of the world. Thank you for your continued partnership."
Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr.
Roslynn Carter's Family
"Rosalynn Carter's deep compassion for people everywhere and her untiring strength on their behalf touched lives around the world. We have heard from thousands of you since her passing. Thank you all for joining us in celebrating what a treasure she was, not only to us, but to all humanity."
U.S. Senator Bob Casey
"First Lady Rosalynn Carter devoted her entire life to our Nation. She brought compassion and grace to every issue she fought for, especially mental health advocacy. Terese and I send our deepest condolences to President Carter and the entire Carter family."
Former First Lady Melania Trump
"Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a meaningful legacy not only as First Lady but as a wife and mother. We will always remember her servant’s heart and devotion to her husband, family, and country. May she rest in peace."
Georgia U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff
“I extend my deepest condolences to President Carter, Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy, and the entire Carter family on their loss. A former First Lady of Georgia and the United States, Rosalynn’s lifetime of work and her dedication for public service changed the lives of many. Among her many accomplishments, Rosalynn Carter will be remembered for her compassionate nature and her passion for women’s rights, human rights, and mental health reform. The State of Georgia and the United States are better places because of Rosalynn Carter. I join all Georgians and Americans in mourning her loss. May Rosalynn Carter’s memory be a blessing.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens
“More than 96 years ago, a First Lady was born years ahead of her time who urged us to take our mental health seriously. She was Rosalynn Carter, and sadly, she has passed away. Mrs. Carter worked side by side with her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, to make life better for people around the world. She never stopped advocating for mental health or the Equal Rights Amendment. She was an activist, author and humanitarian, traveled internationally as her husband’s envoy and was the model for the modern-day First Lady. The city of Atlanta joins all of Georgia—and mourners around the world—as we honor the memory of First Lady Rosalynn Carter.”
Habitat for Humanity
"We are deeply saddened to learn that Rosalynn Carter has died. She was a compassionate and committed champion of Habitat for Humanity and worked fiercely to help families around the world."