SALT LAKE CITY — Utah leaders took to social media to remember former President Jimmy Carter for his faith and service after his death was announced at age 100 on Sunday.
“President Jimmy Carter was a man of faith and had an unwavering dedication to peace. A copy of the Jerusalem Post from the day the Camp David Accords was signed hangs in my office. It serves as a reminder of the possibility of peace, the importance of building alliances, and the power of consensus,” Utah Sen.-elect John Curtis posted.
“President Carter’s legacy of diplomacy inspires us to continue working toward a more just and stable world,” he said.
The Carter Center, the charitable foundation he and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, started, shared the news of his death at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox in a post on X also said Carter “lived a life of service, integrity and faith.”
“As a man deeply devoted to his country and to humanitarian efforts around the globe, he leaves a legacy that transcends politics. Our prayers are with his family and all who mourn his passing,” the governor said, sharing a photo he said was from Carter’s visit to the Salt Lake Tabernacle during National Family Week in November 1978. The photo showed Carter leaning forward in a prayerful mode with his hands held to his head.
U.S. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, asked others to join him in praying for the family of Carter.
“Even more historic than his time in the White House was Carter’s post-presidency, which he dedicated to serving his fellow man. From providing housing for thousands of families to Sunday school for the children of his community, he will remain distinguished among America’s leaders for his great humanitarian accomplishments and deep commitment to his Christian faith,” he posted.
Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes issued a statement on behalf of his office. He offered condolences to the former president’s family and recognized “the service he rendered to our nation before, during and after he served as America’s 39th President.”
“From his time in the U.S. Armed Forces, his work with global charities, to quiet work in his church and local community, he leaves a legacy as a champion of human rights and humanitarian service,” Reyes said on X.
In recent years, Carter had experienced several health issues including melanoma that spread to his liver and brain. Carter decided to receive hospice care in February 2023 instead of undergoing additional medical intervention. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, died on Nov. 19, 2023, at age 96. He looked frail when he attended her memorial service and funeral in a wheelchair.
Public observances for the former president will take place in Atlanta and Washington, and a private internment will take place in Plains. Final arrangements for his state funeral and public events have yet to be announced.
This story may be updated.
