Jimmy Carter Pays Tribute To His Wife, Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, After Her Death At 96

Former President Jimmy Carter reflected on his extensive partnership with his beloved wife, Rosalynn Carter, after her death Sunday afternoon.

Rosalynn died at the age of 96 in her longtime Plains, Georgia, home.

A news release from The Carter Center assured the public that she died “peacefully, with her family by her side.”

In a related statement, Carter, 99, said, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in every endeavor I ever undertook. She provided me with wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in this world, I always knew there was someone who loved me and stood by my side.”

In May, Rosalynn was diagnosed with dementia. She entered hospice care on Friday. In February, Carter terminated any medical intervention amid his own health challenges and remains in hospice care at home.

Their 77-year marriage is the longest of any first couple in U.S. history. The two were wed in 1946, and later welcomed their daughter Amy and sons John William “Jack,” James Earl “Chip,” and Donnel Jeffrey “Jeff.” The two had a total of 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

As her spouse’s political career gained momentum, Rosalynn played a vital role as his staunch advocate and advisor. Additionally, she dedicated herself to the promotion of mental wellness and actively supported arts and arts programs.

When Carter was president from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn assumed the honorary position of chairperson for the President’s Commission on Mental Health. Her efforts led to the successful passage of the Mental Health Systems Act in 1980. 

The former first lady and the former president had a special phrase they shared: “ILYTG,” which stands for “I love you the goodest.” This expression originated from Carter’s parents, and he carried it forward with Rosalynn. In a 2014 interview with People, the 39th president shared, “Now all our children do the same thing – ILYTG on the phone or in emails. They generally just put the initials.”