Former US President Jimmy Carter was hailed on Sunday as a humanitarian and champion of justice by his successors, supporters and admirers around the world after the news of his death.
“Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, died this afternoon in Plains, Georgia,” the Carter Center said in a statement announcing his death on social media platform X. It added that he died peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Shortly after the decision was announced, condolences began to pour in.
US President Joe Biden with his wife Jill
“For six decades, we were honored to call Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But what's remarkable about Jimmy Carter is that millions of people in America and around the world who never met him also considered him a dear friend.
“Through his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, build peace, advance civil and human rights, promote free and fair elections, provide shelter for the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, uplifted and changed the lives of people all over the world.
“And to all the young people of this country, and to everyone who is looking for a life of purpose and meaning – a good life – meet Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith and humility. He showed that we are a great nation because we are good people – decent and honorable, brave and compassionate, humble and strong.”
Former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn spoke in a video about why Biden must become the next president.
US Vice President Kamala Harris
“I have had the honor of knowing President Carter for years. I will always remember his kindness, wisdom and deep grace. His life and legacy continue to inspire me – and will continue to inspire generations to come. Our world has become a better place thanks to President Furman.”
US President-elect Donald Trump
“Those of us who have been fortunate enough to serve as president understand that this is a very exclusive club and only we can identify with the enormous responsibility that comes with leading the Greatest Nation in History.
“Jimmy's challenges as president came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For this we all owe him a debt of gratitude.”
Former US President Barack Obama with his wife Michelle
“Jimmy Carter believed, as deeply as he believed in anything, that we are all created in the image of God. Whenever I had the opportunity to spend time with President Carter, it was clear that he did not just share these values. He embodied them. In doing so, he taught us all what it means to live in grace, dignity, justice and service.”
Former US President Bill Clinton
“Hillary and I mourn the death of President Jimmy Carter and give thanks for his long, good life. Guided by faith, President Carter lived to serve others – until the very end… Hillary and I met President Carter in 1975 and were proud supporters of his presidential campaign. I will always be proud of awarding him and Rosalynn the Medal of Freedom in 1999 and working with We pray with Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy and their families for years after he left the White House.”
Former US President George W. Bush
“James Earl Carter Jr. he was a man with deeply rooted beliefs. He was loyal to his family, community and country. President Carter discharged his office with dignity. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn't end with his presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
“Jimmy Carter's legacy is one of compassion, kindness, empathy and hard work. Throughout his life, he served others both at home and around the world – and he loved doing it. He was always caring and generous with his advice.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people as they mourn the former president and lifelong humanitarian. May his selfless service continue to inspire us all for years to come.”
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh
“President Jimmy Carter was a Nobel Peace Prize winner, peacemaker, lifelong humanitarian and tireless worker at Habitat for Humanity. He earned respect and admiration around the world as a man whose actions were consistent with his values. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, his loved ones and all Americans.”
Chip Carter, his son
“My father was a hero not only to me, but to all who believe in peace, human rights and selfless love… My brothers, sister and I shared him with the rest of the world through these shared beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”
French President Emmanuel Macron
“Jimmy Carter spent his life defending the rights of the most vulnerable people and tirelessly leading the fight for peace. France sends heartfelt thoughts to his family and the American people.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer
“Motivated by strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency by making an extraordinary commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad… (until the very end) he lived his values in service to others.”
King Charles
“It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of former President Carter. He was a committed public servant and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights. His dedication and humility were an inspiration to many and I am happy to recall with great fondness his visit to the UK in 1977.”