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News of Jimmy Carter’s passing spread rapidly through Plains, Georgia, the small town that the 39th U.S. president and Nobel Peace Prize winner called home. Johnny Jones, a longtime resident, shared how he learned of Carter’s death.
“Someone texted my wife, and she told me,” Jones, 85, said Monday, the day after Carter passed away at 100 years old. The former president was surrounded by family in the modest house he and Rosalynn built over 60 years ago.
“Mr. Jimmy and Ms. Rosalynn truly uplifted this town,” Jones said, reflecting on their personal warmth and deep connection to the community.
An In Memorium button for former President Jimmy Carter is seen inside the Plains Trading Post
With a population of fewer than 700, Plains owes much of its global recognition to Carter’s extraordinary journey—from a peanut farmer to the White House and later as a humanitarian and global diplomat. On Monday, local tributes were evident: black ribbons adorned storefronts, and U.S. flags flew solemnly on the quaint main street, home to Carter’s 1976 campaign headquarters and other landmarks tied to his legacy.
Philip Kurland, owner of a political memorabilia shop near the historic train depot, recalled Carter as a caring neighbor who once prayed with him during an illness. “It’s hard to accept,” Kurland said. “We were even planning his 101st birthday.”
At Maranatha Baptist Church, where the Carters long taught Sunday school, residents gathered for a silent vigil. Soft piano music accompanied the lighting of candles at the altar, a poignant scene framed by glowing Christmas trees.
National and Global Tributes
In Washington, preparations are underway for Carter’s state funeral. President Joe Biden, a longtime ally, declared January 9, 2025, a national day of mourning. Carter will lie in state at the Capitol from January 7-9, followed by a state funeral at the National Cathedral, where Biden will deliver a eulogy.
Meanwhile, the U.N. Security Council honored Carter with a moment of silence. U.S. deputy ambassador Dorothy Shea lauded his work as a champion of peace, human rights, and democracy. China’s U.N. envoy, Geng Shuang, praised Carter’s role in fostering U.S.-China relations, calling him “a driving force” behind their establishment.
Egyptian rights advocate Hossam Bahgat remembered Carter as an early critic of Israeli policies toward Palestinians, describing him as a “profile in courage” who prioritized principles over political gain.
Legacy in Plains and Beyond
In Atlanta, near the Carter Center—a hub of diplomacy, election monitoring, and public health initiatives—residents reflected on the Carters’ impact. Richard Hopkins, a local, highlighted Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter’s contributions to Habitat for Humanity, a cause they championed well into their 90s.
Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, emphasized the Carters’ role in popularizing the organization. “They didn’t found Habitat, but their involvement brought it into the global spotlight,” he said.
Back in Plains, Jill Stuckey, who oversees the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, expressed optimism for the town’s future. “The Carters ensured their legacy here will endure,” she said, noting their gravesites will be part of the park. Rosalynn Carter is already buried on the family property, visible from their porch.
“They prepared us for this moment,” Stuckey concluded. “Knowing they’re reunited is a comfort, but their influence will remain with Plains and the world.”
