Former First Lady, Rosalynn Carter, Humanitarian, Mental Health Activist, Dies at 96

Rosalynn Carter, wife of former President Jimmy Carter, was a trailblazer in her own right. During her time as first lady from 1977 to 1981, she was heavily involved in mental health advocacy and humanitarian efforts. She used her platform to bring awareness to issues that were often overlooked, such as mental illness and caregiving. After leaving the White House, she continued to work tirelessly on these causes, founding the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving in 1987. Her legacy will continue to inspire and impact generations to come.

Rosalynn Carter is an American activist and the wife of former President Jimmy Carter. She was born on August 18, 1927, in Plains, Georgia. Rosalynn is known for her advocacy work, particularly in the areas of mental health and caregiving.

Rosalynn Carter, who as first lady worked tirelessly on behalf of mental health reform and professionalized the role of the president’s spouse, died Sunday at the age of 96, according to The Carter Center.

Born in Plains, Georgia in 1927, Rosalynn Smith married Jimmy Carter, then a Navy officer, in 1946. The couple went on to have four children together. When Jimmy Carter was elected president in 1976, Rosalynn became one of the most active first ladies in history. She used her platform to advocate for mental health reform, women’s rights, and other important issues. In 1980, she also became the first first lady to participate in a presidential debate. Even after leaving the White House, Rosalynn continued to work on behalf of those in need, founding the Carter Center with her husband and focusing on global health and human rights issues. She will be remembered as a trailblazer, advocate, and compassionate leader.

During her time as First Lady of the United States from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn worked to raise awareness about mental health issues and advocated for the development of policies to support individuals and families affected by mental illness. She also played an active role in the Carter administration, serving as a trusted advisor to her husband and representing the United States on international trips.

Is Jimmy Carter Still Alive

Rosalynn Carter passed away peacefully with family by her side at her home in Plains, Georgia, the center said in a statement.

“Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished,” her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, said. “She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”

The Carter Center announced Friday that the former first lady had entered hospice care. She was diagnosed with dementia in May. Her husband began home hospice care in February, following a series of hospital stays.

Rosalynn Carter, who was 93 years old, was a prominent figure in American politics as the wife of Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. She was known for her advocacy work on mental health issues, human rights, and for her role as a diplomatic envoy to various countries around the world. The couple had been married for more than 70 years, and their partnership was seen as a model for political marriages. The news of her passing has been met with an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum, with many people expressing their appreciation for her service to the country and her unwavering commitment to public service.

After leaving the White House, Rosalynn continued her advocacy work through the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization she founded with her husband. The Carter Center works to promote peace, democracy, and human rights around the world, and has been involved in a number of initiatives related to health, conflict resolution, and election monitoring.

Today, Rosalynn remains an influential figure in American politics and a respected advocate for social justice and human rights. Her legacy as a First Lady and activist continues to inspire generations of Americans to work towards a better future for all.

Rosalynn Carter’s impact on mental health advocacy is particularly notable. In 1985, she co-chaired the President’s Commission on Mental Health, which produced a report that called for a major reform of the mental health system in the United States. She has also been involved in the development of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism and the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, which provides training and support for family caregivers.

In addition to her work in mental health, Rosalynn has been a champion for women’s rights and environmental protection before her death. She has also been a vocal advocate for peace and disarmament, and has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to these causes.

Despite being in her nineties, Rosalynn remains active in public life and continues to be an inspiration to many. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, human rights, and the betterment of society serves as a reminder of the important role that individuals can play in creating a more just and equitable world.