Former First Lady of the United States of America, Rosalynn Carter, has reportedly passed away at the age of 96.
The news of Rosalynn’s death comes days after it was announced she was entering hospice care, joining her husband, ex-President Jimmy Carter.
Rosalynn and Jimmy have been married for 77 years and had four children, were grandparents to 12 kids, and great-grandparents to 14 children.
Rosalynn Carter Has Died
According to the Carter Center, Rosalynn passed away shortly after entering hospice care. The 96-year-old spent her life advocating for mental health and women’s rights. She reportedly died at her home in Plains, GA, at 2:10 p.m. ET.
Her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, released a statement following her death. He said, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”
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Jimmy and Rosalynn got married in 1946. Their marriage lasted 77 years, making them the longest-living presidential couple in American history
Rosalynn Carter Suffered From Dementia
Rosalynn was diagnosed with dementia in late May. The former first lady’s family revealed her condition and spoke of her legacy related to the topic of caregiving.
“Mrs. Carter has been the nation’s leading mental health advocate for much of her life,” the statement read. “First in the Georgia Governor’s Mansion, then in the White House, and later at The Carter Center, she urged improved access to care and decreased stigma about issues surrounding mental health.”
It continued, “One in 10 older Americans have dementia, a condition that affects overall mental health. We recognize, as she did more than half a century ago, that stigma is often a barrier that keeps individuals and their families from seeking and getting much-needed support. We hope sharing our family’s news will increase important conversations at kitchen tables and in doctor’s offices around the country.”
