The Henderson County Democratic Party joins the nation in mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024. A man of unwavering faith, integrity, and humility, President Carter embodied the ideals of public service and dedication to the greater good. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, wisdom, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
We wanted to share reflections from some of our local community members who were touched by his life and legacy:
"I was fortunate to have a few brief conversations with President Carter over the years. The most memorable one was in 1997, when Rosalynn Carter brought him to a board dinner for the company I worked for. Despite meeting briefly, President Carter’s ability to recall personal details about people we both knew was remarkable and deeply moving. He made everyone feel valued. The world lost a great man yesterday. Godspeed, Mr. President." - Don Stinson
"I was a teenager when Carter was president, but I have a vivid memory of his smile during the Camp David peace summit. It is only in recent years that I've fully appreciated the depth of his impact and his acts of service, especially the story of how he exposed himself to radiation to help contain a nuclear incident while he was an officer in the nuclear Navy. During the past year, I was inspired by his determination to live long enough to vote for Kamala Harris and his courage in speaking the truth about her opponent. Mainly I admire how despite everything he managed to remain honorable, humble, and grounded, a true beacon for us all." -Elizabeth Jennings
"Jimmy Carter was the first president I voted for when I was 18. I went to the local fire department in Pendleton, South Carolina and cast my vote on a hay bale! Jimmy Carter was a man of faith and integrity. At the time, America was healing from a deep recession and the Watergate issues. His ability to bring hope to people and especially create peaceful alliances in foreign policy were his strengths." -Cindy Ellis
"President Jimmy Carter lived a life brimming with love, faith, and an earnest desire to demonstrate his convictions through unwavering commitment to humanity; we are poorer for his absence, though we should find solace in the legacy he has created and the inspiration to countless people who uphold and uplift his memory through the service he personified." -Glen Watson
"Jimmy Carter did not loudly proclaim his Christian principles. He did not seek money or public acclamation. He actively lived his principles. He has defined the very best of mankind." -Joe Elliot
President Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his presidency. As a tireless advocate for human rights and global health through the Carter Center, he worked to eradicate diseases, promote democracy, and resolve conflicts around the world. His commitment to peace was exemplified by his leadership in brokering the Camp David Accords, a monumental achievement in international diplomacy.
As former President Barack Obama noted in his statement, "Jimmy Carter showed us what it means to care for one another and to act on that care. He set a powerful example of humility, compassion, and unflagging service to humanity."
World leaders have echoed these sentiments, reflecting on Carter’s extraordinary impact. As the State Department expressed, "His belief in diplomacy as a tool for peace has left an indelible mark on our nation and the world."
We encourage everyone to read the tributes from the Carter Center, President Obama, the State Department, and others who have shared their thoughts on this remarkable leader. You can find these statements here:
President Carter’s legacy will continue to inspire us to lead lives of service, humility, and love. We send our deepest condolences to the Carter family and all who were touched by his extraordinary life.