Jimmy Carter Says Late Wife Rosalynn Carter Was His “Equal Partner in Everything” Throughout Their 77-Year Marriage

Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter were known to have a solid relationship—in fact, they were the longest married presidential couple in history. Sadly, on November 19, 2023, the former first lady passed away at 96 years old, six months after she was diagnosed with dementia. In the wake of her death, Jimmy reflected on his relationship with Rosalynn and their 77-year-long marriage. “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished,” Jimmy said in a statement. “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.”

In May 2023, Rosalynn was first diagnosed with dementia. Six months later, The Carter Center announced on November 17, 2023, that she had entered hospice care. The mental health advocate died “peacefully” two days later at her home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by her family, according to the statement. Next week, there will be a funeral to honor Rosalynn’s life at Maranatha Baptist Church, per The Carter Center. 

Jimmy and Rosalynn first tied the knot in 1946. The two of them went on to raise four children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, and they later had 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, People reported. When Jimmy served as president from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn was his biggest supporter, and she helped her husband make great strides for America. 

During his presidency, with his wife by his side, Jimmy attained a rare peace agreement between Israel and Egypt, per CNN. Rosalynn also served as the honorary chair of the President’s Commission on Mental Health, which helped pass the Mental Health Systems Act—a piece of legislation that provided grants to community mental health centers—in 1980. Rosalynn was also known to champion arts and programs for the arts. 

After his term, the couple continued to make reforms by collaborating on world peace and human rights efforts through The Carter Center, a nongovernmental organization based in Atlanta with a mission to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope.” They visited places around the world, like Cuba, Sudan, and North Korea, to eliminate neglected tropical diseases, such as Guinea worm disease, according to CNN. “The Carter Center is a shared legacy,” the couple’s friend, Jill Stuckey, said.  

Former president George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush praised Jimmy and Rosalynn for their efforts during their presidency—which were partially a success due to their bond. “There was no greater advocate of President Carter, and their partnership set a wonderful example of loyalty and fidelity,” George and Laura said in a joint statement. “She leaves behind an important legacy in her work to destigmatize mental health.”