We All Owe Him A Debt Of Gratitude’: U.S. Presidents Pay Tribute to Jimmy Carter
Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter on day two of the Democratic National Convention at the Pepsi Center on August 25, 2008. | Source: Getty Images
Biden emphasized Carter’s moral clarity and the love he shared with his wife, Rosalynn Carter, describing their relationship as “the definition of partnership” and their leadership as “the definition of patriotism.”
Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter photographed on August 25, 2008. | Source: Getty Images
He called on the nation to remember Carter’s contributions and keep his family in their prayers, saying, “[…] We all owe him a debt of gratitude.”
Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Jimmy Carter, and Rosalynn Carter at the state funeral service for former President George H.W. Bush on December 5, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Barack Obama reflected on Carter’s enduring decency and his impact both in and out of the White House. He recounted Carter’s work on the Camp David Accords and groundbreaking post-presidential efforts like monitoring elections, eliminating Guinea worm disease, and supporting Habitat for Humanity.
Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter at the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 2013, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
Obama stated, “Jimmy Carter believed, as deeply as he believed anything, that we are all created in God’s image.” He praised Carter’s life of integrity, respect, and compassion, adding, “The world is better for it.”
Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter during the state funeral for former President George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral on December 5, 2018, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton photographed on December 1, 1978. | Source: Getty Images
“He worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world,” Clinton wrote, emphasizing Carter’s humility and unwavering commitment to service. He offered prayers to Carter’s family, honoring his profound impact.
Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton at the ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 2013, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
He expressed hope that Carter’s example of service would inspire generations, offering prayers for the Carter family.
Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, and George H. W. Bush at the Hurricane Relief concert on October 21, 2017, in College Station, Texas. | Source: Getty Images
Jimmy Carter’s life epitomized integrity, humility, and a relentless drive to improve the human condition. The heartfelt tributes from his successors underscored his lasting legacy as a leader, peacemaker, and advocate for justice.