Former President Jimmy Carter passed away on Sunday in his hometown of Plains, Georgia at the age of 100. Known for rising from humble origins as a peanut farmer to occupying the Oval Office, Carter strove to lead the country in a moral manner. Following his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter devoted his life to serving the public. Much of his time after leaving office was dedicated to Habitat for Humanity. In 1998, Carter was awarded the U.N. Prize in the Field of Human Rights, and in 2002 the Nobel Peace Prize.
While his legacy and effectiveness as President is a point of disagreement for many, Alabama’s elected officials are acknowledging Carter’s legacy of service and faith.
In a statement released Sunday, U.S. Senator Katie Britt said that Carter “truly lived the American Dream.”
“From his time tending to his family farm in our neighboring Georgia to being leader of the free world, President Jimmy Carter lived a life deeply rooted in faith and service above self,” Britt said. “As a native of the Wiregrass, I have always been especially inspired by this small-town peanut farmer’s journey. However, it was his servant leadership after his presidency for which I respect him most.”
U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville offered his condolences and noted Carter’s dedication to service.
President Carter dedicated his life to serving his community and country. Suzanne and I are praying for his family and friends.
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) December 29, 2024
U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt pointed to Carter’s work with Habitat for Humanity as an example of true servant leadership.
Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to service to his country —both as a statesman, a member of our military and a citizen. His work through Habitat for Humanity and his unwavering faith-inspired millions. Caroline and I send our prayers to the Carter family during this time of loss.
— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) December 29, 2024
U.S. Rep. Barry Moore declared Carter a “man of compassion, faith, and service.”
Heather and I are sad to hear about the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a man of compassion, faith, and service.
President Carter was influential in shaping peace in the Middle East, through the 1978 Camp David Accords, which created lasting peace between Egypt and Israel.… pic.twitter.com/yZaZCQfbKB
— Rep. Barry Moore (@RepBarryMoore) December 29, 2024
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth called Carter a “devout man who worked tirelessly to serve others.”
I join all patriotic Americans in noting the passing of former President Jimmy Cater and recognizing his service to our nation. Though we had different political beliefs, I know he was a devout man who worked tirelessly to serve others, and that alone is a worthy epitaph.
— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) December 29, 2024
Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter said that Carter will be remembered for his generosity.
My thoughts and prayers are with former President Jimmy Carter’s family.
He truly had a heart for serving others and will be remembered for his generosity and love for our nation.
— Nathaniel Ledbetter (@RepLedbetter) December 30, 2024
Carter was the first president from the Deep South elected since the Civil War. After leaving office, he and his wife, Rosalynn, refused to take money for speeches or to serve on corporate boards. In 1983, he founded the Carter Center, an organization that addresses diplomatic and humanitarian issues.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
