Jimmy Carter, the only centenarian ex-president, died December 29, 2024

The North Carolina Medical Society extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of President Jimmy Carter. At 100 years old, he held the distinction of being the longest-lived American president in history at the time of his passing.

The 39th president of the United States began his term in 1977, serving a single, eventful term in office. This chapter of his life, however, became a prelude to decades of remarkable global advocacy for public health and human rights through The Carter Center. A cornerstone of the Center’s mission is to alleviate human suffering worldwide. It has spearheaded initiatives to eradicate diseases, including the campaign to eliminate Guinea worm disease, while also leading efforts to control and treat onchocerciasis, trachoma, lymphatic filariasis, and malaria through public awareness and education campaigns. The Center is also renowned for building networks of village-based health care workers, empowering communities worldwide.

In recognition of his unwavering dedication to health and human rights, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

On a personal level, Carter demonstrated resilience and innovation in his own battle with metastatic cancer, becoming cancer-free after using a then-groundbreaking medication. He subsequently became an outspoken advocate for immunotherapy, offering hope to countless individuals fighting the disease.

Even in his final days, Carter’s decision to forgo further treatment and embrace hospice care at home in Plains, Georgia, served as an inspiration to millions navigating difficult end-of-life decisions. Reflecting on his life, he said in 2015, “I’m perfectly at ease with whatever comes. I’ve had an exciting, adventurous, and gratifying existence.”

The North Carolina Medical Society salutes President Carter for his extraordinary contributions to global health and human rights. His decades of leadership and compassion have left an enduring legacy, making the world a healthier and more hopeful place.