Former President Jimmy Carter, aged 99 and in hospice care since February 2023, made a touching appearance at the memorial service for his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away on November 19 at the age of 96. Surrounded by past and present presidents, first ladies, and political power players, Carter paid homage to the love of his life in a heartwarming manner.

This was Carter’s first public appearance since September when he celebrated his 99th birthday with Rosalynn at the annual Plains Peanut Festival. Their love and devotion to each other were evident as they were seen waving to the crowd, hand in hand. And it was by her side that Carter remained until she peacefully passed away.

During the memorial service, Carter, dressed in a black suit and white shirt, reclined back in his wheelchair, covering his legs with a white blanket adorned with a portrait of him and Rosalynn. The blanket also featured images depicting their small town of Plains, Georgia, where their enduring love story began. The design included dogwood flowers native to Georgia as well as illustrations symbolizing various aspects of life in Plains.

Accompanied by his family, Carter joined them in the front pew, holding the hands of his children, Chip and Amy. Chip paid tribute to his mother, describing her as the glue that held their family together through the ups and downs of their family’s politics. Amy shared a heartfelt love letter that her father had written 75 years ago while serving in the Navy, signing off with “goodbye darling. Until tomorrow, Jimmy.”

Journalist Judy Woodruff also bid farewell to Rosalynn and recognized her influential role as the first lady, stating, “Without Rosalynn Carter, I don’t believe there would have been a President Carter.”

The memorial ceremonies began with a wreath-laying ceremony at Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex, followed by a funeral service for family and friends at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains.

Let us all remember and celebrate the life of Rosalynn Carter, a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on her family, her community, and the nation.

What are your favorite memories of Rosalynn Carter? Share your thoughts below and let’s honor her inspiring legacy together!

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• Rosalynn Carter’s son Chip pays heartfelt tribute to the late former First Lady