Eleanor Rosalynn Smith Carter (1927 – 2023)


Rosalynn Carter was an American activist and writer who served as First Lady of the United States from 1977 – 1981 during the presidency of her husband Jimmy Carter, the 39th. President of the United States. She was born August 18, 1927 in Plains, Georgia and died November 19, 2023 in Plains, Georgia.

Christmas card from the Carters in 2019

Rosalynn’s name always first on their Christmas card signatures

Emily Burack compiled tributes from five First Ladies of the United States for Town and Country Magazine in an article published November 20, 2023. The following quotes are excerpts from two of them.

“First Lady Rosalynn Carter walked her own path, inspiring a nation and the world along the way. Throughout her incredible life as First Lady of Georgia and the First Lady of the United States, Rosalynn did so much to address many of society’s greatest needs. She was a champion for equal rights and opportunities for women and girls; an advocate for mental health and wellness for every person; and a supporter of the often unseen and uncompensated caregivers of our children, aging loved ones, and people with disabilities…Above all, the deep love shared between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter is the definition of partnership, and their humble leadership is the definition of patriotism. She lived her life by her faith…” (joint statement by Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden)

“Today, Barack and I join the world in celebrating the remarkable legacy of a First Lady, philanthropist, and advocate who dedicated her life to lifting up others. Her life is a reminder that no matter who we are, our legacies are best measured not in awards or accolades, but in the lives we touch. We send our thoughts and prayers to Jimmy and the entire Carter family during this difficult time.” (Michelle Obama)

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Turning to face my fear, I meet the warrior who lives within, wrote Jennifer Welwood. Our nation has lost a warrior woman whose courage and commitment to service will inspire future generations of Americans. Teresa and I are proud to be a part of her legacy. We will miss the calm wisdom, the awesome strength of Rosalynn Carter. May she rest in the peace she labored to give the world.

Comments

11 responses to “Eleanor Rosalynn Smith Carter (1927 – 2023)”

  1. JosieHolford Avatar

    The Carters are true American originals. Of the best sort. Just imagine a second Carter administration and no Reagan first term.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Morris Avatar

      I have imagined that for forty years. The Carters are “true American originals” for sure. When Pretty and I had the opportunity to meet them through the Carter Center and go to Plains as part of a group, we found them to be exactly as they appeared to be. Warm, but purposeful. They will always be heroes to us. They refused to play the Washington games while he was in office – which while admirable to some folks like us – didn’t help in his campaign against Reagan.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. JosieHolford Avatar

        That election was stolen (hostage timing).

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Sheila Morris Avatar

        Yes, and if you don’t believe it, just mention it to Jimmy Carter…to this day he’ll be glad to tell you about it…who can blame him. It was stolen.

        Liked by 1 person

  2.  Avatar
    Anonymous

    Lovely post Sheila, I hadn’t heard of her so thank you for introducing me.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Morris Avatar

      Thank you so much. I’m glad you met her. She was referred to as the Steel Magnolia by many because of her Southern roots, gentile manner combined with a fierce dedication to President Carter and the country.

      Like

  3. Bob Avatar
    Bob

    A wonderful couple; love them both.

    RIP Rosalynn

    Liked by 1 person

  4. cindy knoke Avatar

    I admire both of them.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Morris Avatar

      Pretty and I do, too.

      Like

  5. Animalcouriers Avatar

    A very splendid woman xxx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Morris Avatar

      Yes. Truly splendid.

      Liked by 1 person