Jimmy Carter — a prominent figure in American history as the thirty-ninth President of the United States, an esteemed philanthropist, and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate — has passed away.

The news of his passing was officially confirmed by his son, Jimmy Carter III, affectionately known as Chip, in a statement to the Washington Post on Sunday.

The Carter Center shared with TMZ that Jimmy Carter passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his beloved family. Notably, he was recognized as the longest-living former president in United States history at the time of his death.

In February 2023, it was publicly disclosed that Carter had begun hospice care following a series of hospital visits. His grandson provided updates on the former president’s health, indicating that Carter was having difficulty staying awake every day.

Despite his health challenges, his grandson mentioned that Carter was still able to share laughs and make jokes with family members at his home in Plains, Georgia, suggesting he maintained a positive spirit right until the end of his life.

President Biden shared that the late president had requested him to deliver his eulogy, signifying the deep respect and connection shared between them.

Over the past few years, Carter faced several health challenges, beginning with a cancer diagnosis in 2015. He also endured a fractured hip in May 2019, along with a surgical procedure later that year to relieve pressure on his brain caused by internal bleeding from falls.

Rooted deeply in his Georgia heritage, Carter’s political journey commenced as a Georgia State Senator in the 1960s. He ascended to the role of Governor of Georgia in 1970 as a member of the Democratic Party. During his inauguration speech, he boldly declared, “The time of racial discrimination is over,” emphasizing that “No poor, rural, weak, or Black person should ever have to bear the additional burden of being deprived of the opportunity for an education, a job, or simple justice.”

Carter’s bold statements came as a surprise to many voters, including segregationists who had initially supported him, particularly in light of his conservative campaign. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Carter’s outspoken stance against racist policies.

As his governorship was nearing its conclusion, Carter announced his candidacy for the presidency. Initially perceived as an underdog, he quickly rose to become the leading Democratic candidate, ultimately defeating President Gerald Ford in the 1976 election.

His election victory came just weeks after a widely publicized interview in Playboy where then-candidate Carter openly admitted, “I’ve looked on a lot of women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times.”

While his comments stirred controversy at the time, they now seem almost tame compared to the revelations we often see regarding politicians’ private lives today.

Regardless, Carter was inaugurated in 1977 and served one full term as president.

His presidency is often remembered for economic challenges, the energy crisis, and his significant efforts in brokering a historic peace agreement.

In 1979, Carter facilitated a groundbreaking meeting at Camp David, bringing together Egyptian President Anwar el-Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. This resulted in a peace treaty that concluded decades of conflict and established Egypt as the first Arab nation to officially recognize Israel.

Unfortunately, his final year in office was overshadowed by the Iran hostage crisis, which played a significant role in his defeat by Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election.

Following his defeat to Reagan, Carter remained actively engaged in public life and diplomacy. In 1982, he founded the well-regarded Carter Center in Atlanta, dedicated to promoting human rights and alleviating human suffering, which ultimately earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his extensive contributions.

Carter and his beloved late wife, Rosalynn, became well-known for their dedicated work with Habitat for Humanity, demonstrating their commitment to social justice and community development.

In addition to his political legacy, Carter served in the Navy, where he and Rosalynn began their courtship. They married in 1946, marking them as the longest-married presidential couple in American history, celebrating over 77 years of partnership!

Notably, Jimmy Carter was also the first U.S. president to be born in a hospital, a historic milestone that took place in Plains, Georgia.

Carter is survived by his four children and numerous grandchildren. His late wife, Rosalynn, predeceased him, passing away at age 96 in November 2023, shortly after entering hospice care.

Rosalynn had been diagnosed with dementia, a condition confirmed by the Carter Center six months before her passing.

Despite his failing health, Carter made it a point to attend the funeral of his beloved wife, wrapped in a blanket adorned with her face, showcasing his enduring love and devotion.

He was 100 years old.