Plains, the Small Birthplace of Rosalynn Carter, Grieves the Loss of Its Global Icon

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In the quaint town of Plains, the Lions Club Christmas tree was adorned by Linda Campbell, as per tradition during Thanksgiving week. However, this particular Monday in late November was far from typical.

The community was united in sorrow over the passing of Rosalynn Carter, their esteemed former First Lady of the United States, and concerned for the well-being of former President Jimmy Carter.

Campbell, 75, shared her prayers for the couple, a sentiment echoed by fellow longtime resident Lee Johnson, as they lowered both the U.S. and Georgia state flags in the town’s commercial district.

Rosalynn Carter passed away at her home on Sunday, having battled dementia in recent times. Her decline in health was swift. She was 96 years old. Former President Carter, now 99, has been receiving home hospice care since February.

The Carters’ hometown now faces uncertainty regarding Jimmy Carter’s ability to attend the forthcoming public memorials for his wife in Sumter County and Atlanta.

Rosalynn’s death, preceding her husband’s, took the townspeople by surprise. It has provided an opportunity to honor a woman who, while often in her husband’s shadow, made her own significant mark both locally and worldwide.

Tim Buchanan, Rosalynn’s cousin, lauded her humility and grace, emphasizing her impactful presence within the community. Jill Stuckey, a friend of the Carters since the 1990s, described the couple as the “lifeblood of Plains,” a town of approximately 600 residents, similar in size to when the Carters were born in the 1920s, married in 1946, and launched the 1976 presidential campaign.

The Carters’ return to Plains after Jimmy’s 1980 election defeat was unexpected, especially to their niece, LeAnne Smith, who resides in Rosalynn’s childhood home. They rejoined Maranatha Baptist Church, where Rosalynn’s final funeral will be held on November 29, after being members of Plains Baptist Church for most of their marriage.

Linda Campbell noted Rosalynn’s role in establishing a community Thanksgiving food drive, while her husband Jeff Campbell, who worked for the National Parks Service, remembered her gracious yet particular nature.

Stuckey highlighted Rosalynn’s balance between her global role and local engagement. Plains residents like Phillip Kurland and Andrea Walker shared anecdotes of the Carters’ personable nature and Rosalynn’s love for candid conversations and surprise visits.

Though much in Plains is named after Jimmy, efforts are underway to honor Rosalynn more visibly, including markers at her childhood garden and the “Butterfly Trail” reflecting her love for butterflies.

Even in their passing, the Carters’ legacy continues to shape Plains, drawing visitors and contributing to its economic and tourism development.

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