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The Community Remembering Jimmy Carter
In the close-knit town of Plains, Georgia, news of former President Jimmy Carter’s passing resonated swiftly through the community. Johnny Jones, a local resident, learned about the news shortly after it occurred, illustrating the close connections typical in small towns.
“Somebody texted my wife, and that’s how I found out,” Jones shared on Monday, just a day after the 39th president died at 100, surrounded by his family in the modest home he and his late wife, Rosalynn, built prior to embarking on his political journey more than six decades ago.
Jones reflected on the substantial impact Carter had on Plains, stating, “His presence here really boosted the morale of everyone who lives here.” As he reminisced about pleasant conversations with both Carter and Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023, the warmth of their legacy was apparent in his words.
The Carters significantly elevated the profile of their hometown of fewer than 700 residents, which has remained relatively unchanged since Carter’s birth on October 1, 1924. His unique trajectory from the White House to global humanitarian efforts was echoed in sentiments from both residents of Plains and admirers worldwide.
Near where Jones reflected, black ribbons adorned U.S. flags along the main thoroughfare of Plains, where souvenir shops and cafés form the heart of the town. The street, spanning just a few blocks from the historical site of Carter’s 1976 presidential campaign headquarters to the family’s former peanut warehouses, was filled with media coverage, including television crews and news trucks, capturing the mourning of a beloved hometown figure.
Philip Kurland, who operates a political memorabilia shop, expressed his grief, remembering Carter as an affable neighbor who once offered him prayers during his illness. “We’re in a state of denial,” Kurland remarked, capturing the disbelief felt by many who had hoped to celebrate the centennial birthday soon.
At Maranatha Baptist Church, where the Carters had a profound influence as Sunday school teachers, local residents gathered for a quiet vigil. Attendees lit candles and listened to soft piano music, claiming a space for communal sorrow as they remembered their iconic former resident.
Meanwhile, plans emerged in Washington for honoring Carter’s monumental legacy. President Joe Biden announced that January 9, 2025, will be designated as a national day of mourning, when federal offices will close for Carter’s state funeral at the National Cathedral. Biden, who has long regarded Carter as both a mentor and friend, will deliver the eulogy. Congressional leaders confirmed that Carter will lie in state from January 7 to January 9 before his final ceremony.
Internationally, the U.N. Security Council paid tribute to the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, highlighting Carter’s enduring commitment to peace and human rights. U.S. deputy ambassador Dorothy Shea mentioned his significant contributions toward conflict resolution and democratic strengthening, both during and after his presidency.
Tribute came from across the globe, including China, where officials recognized Carter’s role in establishing diplomatic relations. A prominent Egyptian rights advocate also honored Carter for his unwavering stance on Israeli policy issues, acknowledging his courage to address such contentious subjects directly.
Back in Plains, residents remained grateful for the Carters’ ongoing influence, particularly through the Carter Center, established in 1982 to tackle diplomatic, electoral, and public health challenges worldwide. Resident Richard Hopkins noted Carter’s holistic service, extending beyond his presidency into meaningful philanthropic efforts, notably with Habitat for Humanity, partnering to build homes for those in need.
Jason Carter, grandson of the late president, remarked that his grandfather’s commitment to service stemmed from his small-town roots, which shaped his approach to philanthropy with genuine humility. Some community members are apprehensive about Plains’ future now that the Carters have passed, fearing a decline in interest in their hometown.
In contrast, Jill Stuckey, a long-time friend of the Carters and manager of the nearby Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, expressed hope for the enduring legacy of the Carters in Plains. She emphasized the positive mark they have left, with plans for their final resting place contributing to the park’s significance.
“I believe they have set us up for success,” Stuckey said poignantly, underscoring how the Carters’ legacy will continue to be felt by future generations.
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