President Jimmy Carter died this afternoon at the age of 100. A life of 100 years is impossible to quantify in a letter, statement or post of any kind, but the life of President Carter? His was a life of such meaning, magnitude and expansive kindness and grace that it’s a struggle to know what to say that doesn’t seem reductive. There has been no other President who has made his life, particularly his post Presidential life, so meaningful, so impactful, or so completely overflowing with grace, kindness, and care for others.
When his work in the White House was done, he could have retired back to a quieter life with his beloved Rosalynn, in Plains GA. Rather than stepping back into that quiet life, he immediately looked for ways he could continue to make a difference. He found many ways to do so, becoming a statesman on behalf of the United States around the world promoting diplomacy, establishing the Carter Center to advance human rights, and the work that has been astoundingly impactful, becoming an active volunteer and the voice for Habitat for Humanity. President Carter’s belief that all humans have a right to a safe home has been one of the defining legacies of his life. He and Mrs. Carter worked tirelessly alongside Habitat volunteers in dozens of countries, in all seasons, and with all those who came to give of themselves to make a better opportunity for others. They did not come to be photographed or interviewed; when they came to Habitat, they came to work. And work they did. They helped build nearly 4,500 houses, with 108,000 volunteers, in 14 countries. What an absolutely astounding legacy President Carter leaves behind! Without him, our work might be possible, but would be made that much harder. He helped to give Habitat for Humanity a worldwide platform on which to do our work. We owe a debt of gratitude to he and Mrs. Carter, and we join the thousands of families tonight who have safe shelter in celebrating the incredible life, work, and legacy of President Carter. His Habitat work does not end here, it now is up to us to continue it. His legacy now becomes ours, to continue to make real the dream of safe, affordable, homes for all.
We send our thoughts, sympathy, and gratitude to the Carter family. We wish them peace.