Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of President Jimmy Carter, has died at the age of 96.
The Carter Center announced the news in a release Sunday.
“Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, a passionate champion of mental health, caregiving, and women’s rights, passed away Sunday, Nov. 19, at 2:10 p.m. at her home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 96,” the release said. “She died peacefully, with family by her side.
Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter were married for 77 years. The former president issued a statement on his wife’s passing.
“Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”
The former first lady began receiving home hospice care earlier this week. The former president, 99, began receiving home hospice care in early February.