UNITED STATES — The National Park Service (NPS) and Governor Gordon remember the legacy of Rosalynn Carter, the late wife of President Jimmy Carter, 39th first lady of the United States, global humanitarian and a leader in establishing basic human rights.
In accordance with a proclamation by the President of the United States, Governor Mark Gordon has ordered both the United States and Wyoming flags to fly at half-staff beginning Nov. 25, until sunset, on the day of interment as a mark of respect for the memory of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
“A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.”
Rosalynn Carter
Mrs. Carter actively supported national parks and was especially devoted to the park that bears her husband’s name, the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, which Congress established in 1987, according to the NPS. Mrs. Carter facilitated events and developed exhibits that educated the public in the life and presidency of her husband.
“Rosalynn Carter was a staunch supporter of national parks, both as first lady and as a private citizen,” Jimmy Carter National Historical Park Superintendent Jill Stuckey said in a statement. “Here in Plains, (Georgia,) she has long been an active participant…working with National Park Service staff in the development and growth of the park. I and the entire staff of Jimmy Carter National Historical Park are deeply saddened by Mrs. Carter’s passing, but we celebrate her life and legacy and will continue to inspire and educate present and future generations by telling the stories of her life and impact on the global community.”
Throughout her life, she championed the needs of the people and is recognized as a leading advocate for mental health, per the Park Service memorandum. Under Mrs. Carter’s guidance, the Carter administration passed the Mental Health Systems Act in 1980, which recommended policies to overcome deficiencies in the mental health system.
“Do what you can to show you care about other people, and you will make our world a better place.”
Rosalynn Carter
Mrs. Carter was also a vocal leader in women’s rights and fought to pass the Equal Rights Amendment, per the NPS announcement. She received the Award of Merit for Support of the Equal Rights Amendment from the National Organization for Women.
After President Carter left the oval office, Mrs. Carter only strengthened her commitment in creating “a more caring society.” In 1982, the Carters founded the Carter Center in Atlanta and its mission seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy and improve health. Part of the Center’s focus is teaching rural farmers how to grow more crops and fight ravaging diseases, according to the Carter Center.
“Aside from doing everything possible to provide programs for people who are seriously ill, I want to do everything humanly possible to help create a more caring society so that we can begin to counter the painful loneliness and sense of helplessness which has engulfed too many of our people.”
Rosalynn Carter
In 1984, the Carter Work Project partnered with Habitat for Humanity in building affordable houses and shelter. According to Habitat for Humanity, the Carters brought national attention to the cause, were active fundraisers and “some of the best hands-on construction volunteers.”
“We have been with Habitat for so long and have seen so many people finally have a home. It really does change their lives and the lives of their whole family. It gives them a sense of belonging, a sense of self-esteem. It is just life-changing.”
Rosalyn Carter
In 1987, Mrs. Carter founded the Rosalynn Carter Institute (RCI) for Caregivers to support the unique needs of caregivers. RCI credits Mrs. Carter for increasing awareness of the challenges facing family caregivers, and establishing caregivers as a vital part of our nation’s public health system.
“There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers.”
Rosalyn Carter
In 1999, Mrs. Carter received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Mrs. Carter will be buried in the family plot, located at the Carter home, now part of Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Some areas of Jimmy Carter National Historical Park may be closed in the days leading up to the burial, the NPS said via press release. Her interment will take place Nov. 29, 2023.
Updates and a full schedule of events celebrating the life of First Lady Rosalynn Carter will be posted on the National Park Service website at www.nps.gov/jica and on the park’s social media platforms (@JimmyCarterNPS).
Rosalynn Carter died on November 19, 2023 at the age of 96.
