Jimmy Carter, 39th U.S. President, dies at 100
(Former President Jimmy Carter in 1987 working on a Habitat for Humanity home, Image credit Facebook)
(Updated 12/30/2024 7:45 p.m.) James Earl Carter Jr. (aka “Jimmy Carter”) the 39th President of the United States, passed away at the very tender age of 100 on December 29, 2024. His death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to public service and humanitarian efforts. Carter, who was born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, was a peanut farmer and a U.S. Navy lieutenant before entering politics, according to CNN.
Carter’s presidency, from 1977 to 1981, was marked by significant achievements and challenges. One of his most notable accomplishments was the Camp David Accords, which led to a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. However, his administration also faced difficulties, including the Iran hostage crisis and economic issues.
After leaving office, the former President dedicated his life to humanitarian work, becoming a global advocate for human rights and democracy. In 1982, he founded the Carter Center, which has worked to advance peace and health worldwide. NBC News also shared that his efforts in conflict resolution, election monitoring, and disease eradication earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Carter’s post-presidency was characterized by his hands-on approach to service. He and his wife, Rosalynn, were often seen working with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for those in need.
His commitment to social justice and human rights made him a beloved figure both in the United States and internationally. Tributes have poured in from around the world, with leaders praising Carter’s dedication to peace and his moral integrity. The BBC quoted President Joe Biden as describing Carter as an “extraordinary” individual who exemplified “decency” and “human values.”
Currently, all federal flags, including the flag flying above the White House, are flying at half-mast. President Biden who will be delivering Carter’s eulogy, has designated January 9, 2025, as a National Day of Mourning in Carter’s memory. All federal offices will also be closed on January 9, according to Biden. January 9 will also be the date for Carter’s official state funeral.
Services honoring Carter will begin Jan. 4 and include a brief pause at the family farm in Plains, Georgia, where he grew up, and a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence.
Carter will repose in state at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta until Jan. 7 for mourners to pay their respects, before departing for Washington, D.C., where his remains will be carried to the U.S. Navy Memorial and then to the U.S. Capitol in a funeral procession. ~ NBC News
–
–
–
–
The following is a statement from NASA Administrator Bill Nelson on Sunday’s passing of President Jimmy Carter:
“President Carter was the pinnacle of a public servant, dedicating his life to making our world a better place. He showed us each and every person has the power to make a difference. From providing for those in need, protecting the environment, and championing civil and human rights, President Carter was a good man who always strove to do what was right. He embodied the very best of humanity and his life and legacy are an example to the United States and the world.
NASA’s Voyager 1, the most distant human-made object from Earth, carries a message from President Carter that captures his core goodness and grace:“
“If one such civilization intercepts Voyager and can understand these recorded contents, here is our message: This is a present from a small distant world, a token of our sounds, our science, our images, our music, our thoughts, and our feelings. We are attempting to survive our time so we may live into yours. We hope someday, having solved the problems we face, to join a community of galactic civilizations. This record represents our hope and our determination, and our good will in a vast and awesome universe.”
“President Carter understood an important truth: that we find common ground when we look to the stars. His words will forever belong to the heavens, and his legacy has forever bettered our country – and our Earth. The NASA family and I are keeping the Carter family close in our thoughts. May President Carter rest in peace.”
Yahoo! News characterized Carter’s legacy as that of a statesman and humanitarian whose life will continue to inspire future generations. His passing is not just the loss of a former president but the end of an era of compassionate leadership. His life serves as a testament to the impact one individual can have on the world through dedication to service and the pursuit of peace.
For more on the life and times of Jimmy Carter, see the video accompanying this article.
–
(Cover photo, President Jimmy Carter in the White House, 1977, Image credit: The White House)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
Follow Richard on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
