Former US first lady Rosalyn Carter, wife of President Jimmy Carter, has died aged 96 at the couple's home in the southern state of Georgia, the couple's non-profit organization said.
Carter was best known for her post-White House work, as she and her husband championed human rights, democracy and health issues around the world — while maintaining an extremely modest public image.
Rosalyn was diagnosed with dementia in May and was receiving special care at home.
"Former First Lady Rosalyn Carter, a passionate advocate for mental health care and women's rights, has died at her home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 96," the Carter Center said in a statement. "She passed away peacefully with her family by her side."
"Rosalyn has been my equal partner in everything I've ever accomplished," Jimmy Carter stated. "She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. While Rosalyn was in the world, I always knew someone loved and supported me," added the former Democratic Party president.
During Jimmy Carter's long political career, his wife was at the heart of his campaigns. Rosalyn Carter stood out as the first lady who intended to be actively involved in politics.
"Rosalyn Carter attended cabinet meetings and important briefings, serving as the president's personal emissary to Latin American countries," the White House recalled. /BGNES
