Atlanta, Georgia – The city of Atlanta recently came alive with a grand celebration in honor of a remarkable milestone – the 100th birthday of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. The historic Fox theater was the venue for this momentous occasion, where dozens of musical acts and thousands of guests came together to pay tribute to the one-time governor of Georgia.
The concert, which featured some performers who had also campaigned for Carter during his presidential bid in the 1970s, was a bipartisan event that aimed to bring people together. According to Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, the concert was a way to celebrate his grandfather’s legacy and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
“It’s a way to be together and I think that’s who he is fundamentally,” said Jason during a press event leading up to the performances. “You’ll have both Democrats and Republicans here tonight.”
Despite the absence of Jimmy Carter himself, who remains in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia, the celebration was a true testament to his impact and influence. As Jason Carter explained, his grandfather’s work has always been centered around helping people in small communities, whether it’s in Africa or at home in Plains.
“He feels a kinship there and he feels a connection, and the way he marks this moment is by being at home,” said Jason.
While Jimmy Carter may not have been physically present at the concert, he was able to watch it broadcasted on Georgia Public Television from the comfort of his home. It was a fitting way for him to celebrate his milestone birthday in the place where his story began – at the Wise Sanitarium, now known as the Lillian G. Carter Nursing Center, where he was born on October 1, 1924.
But as Jill Stuckey, a Carter family friend and superintendent of the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site in Plains, pointed out, the only reason he was born in a hospital was because his mother was working that day. It’s a small detail that adds to the remarkable story of a man who went from being born in a small town to becoming the 39th President of the United States.
After the announcement of Carter’s hospice care nearly a year ago, Stuckey didn’t expect to see him reach his 100th birthday. But she is grateful to be able to celebrate this momentous occasion and to honor his legacy by serving others. In fact, the town of Plains organized several events to commemorate the occasion, including naturalizing 100 new citizens, a flyover by four F-18 jets, and a smaller concert at the Plains High School auditorium.
“It’s definitely a time for fanfare because he’s definitely the greatest person I’ve ever met in my life,” said Stuckey.
Carter’s milestone birthday is a bittersweet occasion in Plains, as it is the first one he has spent without his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who passed away last November after 77 and a half years of marriage. Stuckey described it as a tough time for Carter and for everyone who knew and loved Rosalynn.
But despite the sadness, the celebration was a reminder of the incredible impact that Jimmy Carter has had on the world. From being a local peanut farmer to becoming a global statesman, his journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a deep desire to make a positive difference in the world.
And as his great-grandson, Charlie Carter, hinted, this may not be the last time the family gathers to celebrate such a milestone. When asked if there will be a celebration for his 101st birthday, Charlie simply replied, “No… maybe his 101st?”
Jimmy Carter’s legacy goes far beyond his presidency. He holds the record for the longest post-presidential career, and together with Rosalynn, they founded the Atlanta-based nonprofit Carter Center, which continues to make a positive impact in the world through their work in fighting diseases, promoting peace, and monitoring elections.
It’s no wonder that Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, and his 100th birthday is a true testament to his remarkable life and legacy. As the celebrations in Atlanta and Plains come to an end, it’s clear that Jimmy Carter’s impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
