Former US President Carter's Wife Rosalynn Passes Away at 96 (Comprehensive)

Rosalynn Carter, wife of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away on the 19th (local time) at the age of 96.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

The Carter Center announced in a statement that Rosalynn peacefully passed away at 2:10 p.m. at her home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by her family.

Rosalynn Carter, who was diagnosed with dementia last May, had been receiving hospice care at home. Hospice care generally refers to comprehensive care and treatment provided to those with terminal illnesses. Former President Carter, who has been battling skin cancer, has also been receiving hospice care since February.

Rosalynn Carter was the closest political advisor to former President Carter and an advocate for mental health. Unlike other first ladies, she attended cabinet meetings and appeared at National Security Council (NSC) briefings, and even traveled abroad on behalf of her husband. She served as the honorary chair of the President's Commission on Mental Health, leading efforts in related legislation and budget expansion.

The New York Times (NYT) reported, "The Carters had weekly lunches to discuss policy. Her handwriting appears frequently in her husband's speeches and policy drafts," adding that she was "almost a 'co-president'." After President Carter's term ended, they co-founded the Carter Foundation in 1982, dedicating themselves to issues such as mental health, caregiving, strengthening infant immunity, human rights, and conflict resolution.

Rosalynn Carter was born on August 18, 1927, in Plains, a small town in Georgia, the same as former President Carter. She married Jimmy Carter in 1946. They celebrated their 77th wedding anniversary this past July. In a statement, former President Carter said, "Rosalynn was an equal partner in everything I accomplished," adding, "She gave me advice and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I knew someone always loved and supported me."