In an atmosphere of respect, former Presidents and First Ladies from around the nation gathered to pay their final respects to Rosalynn Carter at her memorial service on Tuesday.
Final goodbye
The service, held in her hometown of Plains, Georgia, was a tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to public service and championed countless social causes throughout her term.
As previously reported, Rosalynn passed away at the age of 96 earlier this month.
Paying tribute to Rosalynn
She died peacefully in her sleep at a hospice care facility surrounded by her loved ones, as the family statement revealed.
Her contributions to mental health did not cease post-presidency.
In fact, they amplified.
Her devotion to her job
She co-founded The Carter Center with her husband in 1982, a center which is devoted to advancing human rights and alleviating human suffering.
It became a passion project for Rosalynn, who was truly dedicated to her philanthropic work.
As the wife of the 39th President, Jimmy Carter, who was also in attendance, she held a prominent place in the public eye.
She became one of the most popular First Ladies
Yet, she never let this position overshadow her dedication to her family and her passion for social justice.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who showed up with husband and former President Bill Clinton, noted that Rosalynn Carter was a “pillar of strength and grace.”
She remembered how Rosalynn’s work on mental health issues was groundbreaking at the time and continues to influence policy today.
Former First Ladies unite
Former President Barack Obama, accompanied by former First Lady Michelle Obama, echoed these sentiments in his tribute.
It remarked on Rosalynn’s unwavering commitment to service and how she used her role as First Lady to effect meaningful change.
Her husband was also at the service, seated in the front row of the Atlanta church.
It was a heartfelt service
His grandson Jason Carter said that Jimmy was “coming to the end of his life” and was “physically diminished.
He had left the hospice care he’d been staying at solely to farewell to his longtime partner.
“We all know that he wouldn’t miss it for the world,” he shared.
Her family was overcome with emotions
His daughter, Amy Lynn, shared a few sentimental words of her own, adding, “My mom spent most of her life in love with my dad.”
“Their partnership and love story was a defining feature of her life.”
Rosalynn worked tirelessly on mental health initiatives, senior citizen issues, and child welfare, using her platform to drive lasting changes.
Melania also showed up
Surprisingly enough, Melania Trump made a rare appearance at the memorial as well.
The outpouring of respect at the memorial service was a testament to the remarkable impact Rosalynn Carter left on the nation.
The ceremony saw an impressive turnout of dignitaries, including former Presidents and their spouses, who had come together to pay tribute to a woman they deeply admired. President Biden, his wife, Jill, and VP Kamala Harris were also in tow.
Amidst heartfelt eulogies and shared memories, it became apparent how much Rosalynn had touched the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Devastating loss
The memorial service was not just a somber occasion but also a celebration of Rosalynn Carter’s life.
Her grandchildren shared anecdotes about their beloved grandmother’s zest for life and her indomitable spirit.
Meanwhile, her eldest son, Jack Carter, spoke about his mother’s legacy and how she instilled in him the values of kindness and compassion.
Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, reminding them that with passion and dedication, one can make a significant difference in this world.
