In Plains, Georgia, a heartfelt tribute rang out for Rosalynn Carter's first birthday since her passing. Plains commemorated the 97th birthday of Rosalynn Carter with musical tributes and reflections on her enduring humanitarian impact.
Highlighting the event was a performance by the Valiant Voices choir from St. Genevieve High School.
They delivered "Let There Be Peace On Earth," a song that resonated with Rosalynn’s lifelong dedication to peace and wellness.
Singer-songwriter Andrew Greer also graced the event, performing "Butterfly, Fly," a song he penned for Carter’s 95th birthday. The performance symbolically captured Rosalynn's transformative influence on those around her.
Rosalynn Carter's niece, Kim Carter Fuller, spoke about Rosalynn's deep commitment to servant-leadership.
"You are here because you love a woman who was a true example of a servant-leader," Fuller told the gathering, reflecting on Rosalynn’s impact.
Her work stretched far beyond the confines of the United States, particularly remembered for her fight against Guinea worm disease and her efforts to destigmatize mental illness.
The celebration also included a film screening, enriching the attendees' understanding of Rosalynn's vast contributions. A discussion panel featuring her family provided deeper insights into the personal and public facets of her life.
Additionally, a butterfly release was held in a local garden, symbolizing renewal and the perpetual influence of Rosalynn’s endeavors.
Living most of their lives in Plains, Rosalynn and her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, have left a significant mark on their hometown. Rosalynn passed away in November after a battle with dementia, while Jimmy Carter entered hospice care earlier last year.
Their legacies continue to be celebrated, with plans underway to mark Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday at the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park this coming October.
Reverend Ashley Guthas, the first woman pastor of Maranatha Baptist Church, credited her position to Rosalynn’s influential role in the church and community. "The more that I learn about Rosalynn, the more that I know concretely that I am here because of her influence," Guthas stated.
Such acknowledgments underscore the breadth of Rosalynn Carter's impact, from her personal relationships to her public endeavors.
The Carter Center has announced that a musical tribute will be held in September at the Fox Theater in Atlanta, continuing the celebration of Rosalynn Carter's life and work.
The church was filled with the echoes of Andrew Greer’s touching lyrics, "Strong as steel, sweet as a magnolia," as parishioners shared Carter's birthday cake, further bonding the community in remembrance and reverence.
