Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter Dies at 96

Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady and wife of former President Jimmy Carter, has died at the age of 96.

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of former President Jimmy Carter, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at the age of 96. In honor of her memory, President Joe Biden has ordered that U.S. flags on federal government buildings and property be lowered to half-staff for five days, from Saturday, November 19, through sunset on Wednesday, November 23, the day of her burial in Plains, Georgia.

Flags to Fly at Half-Staff

The order applies to flags at the White House, all other federal buildings and grounds, and all military and naval posts, including Navy vessels, in the United States and its territories, as well as all U.S. diplomatic, military, and naval outposts abroad. Such orders are customary when major federal government figures, including first ladies, pass away. However, presidential spouses do not receive state funerals.

Public Events to Honor Rosalynn Carter

A series of public events will be held in Sumter County, Georgia, starting on Monday, November 21, to honor Rosalynn Carter. This is the county where she and former President Carter were born, married, and lived for most of their lives. A service for Rosalynn Carter will be held in Atlanta on Tuesday, November 22, followed by a final funeral on Wednesday, November 23, at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, where the Carters were members for over 40 years after leaving Washington in 1981. She will be laid to rest on land near the home where she and the former president have resided since 1961, except for four years in the Georgia Governor's Mansion and four years in the White House.

Biden's Attendance Uncertain

It is not yet confirmed whether President Biden will attend Rosalynn Carter's service in Atlanta. Former presidents and first ladies often attend the funerals of former first ladies. President Biden has previously stated that he plans to deliver the eulogy for former President Carter when the time comes.

Rosalynn Carter's passing is a profound loss for the nation. She will be remembered for her dedication to public service, her advocacy for mental health awareness, and her unwavering support for her husband during his presidency and beyond. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.