Michigan politicians recall flrst Lady Rosalynn Carter’s humanitarianism and strength

Current and former Michigan lawmakers remember former first lady Rosalynn Carter for her compassion, strength and lifetime of tackling pressing issues all over the world.

She died Sunday peacefully at the age of 96 with family by her side, according to the Carter Center.

Rosalynn Carter was the closest adviser to her her husband, Jimmy Carter, during his term as president, and was known for her political savvy, activism and influence behind the scenes. She was a longtime advocate for mental health and the elderly and is internationally renowned for her career as a humanitarian promoting public health and democracy, the Associated Press said.

More: Rosalynn Carter, outspoken former first lady, dead at 96

The Carters were married for more than 77 years and have four children, three sons and a daughter. At age 99, Jimmy Carter is the longest-lived U.S. president.

“Heartbroken to hear the news of First Lady Carter’s passing,” U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow said on the X platform. “She was an historic first lady, humanitarian, and leader, who put access to mental health care at the forefront of her work. I’m thinking of President Carter and their whole family during this difficult time.”

U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, said her heart is with the Carter family in a statement posted on X.

“She was a woman of strength and determination with a soft approach and a steely spine, taking on important issues that others wouldn’t, including mental health and immunizations,” Dingell said. “She was unfailingly kind and never afraid to do the right thing. Many have been touched by her compassion, service, and humility, and she will be deeply missed.”

Former Michigan Congressman Dennis Hertel said he spoke with Rosalynn Carter several times throughout their respective careers. She always had “a great deal of warmth” and a keen interest in politics, he said.

“Her message of caring about our neighbors and helping other people was her foremost attribute, and I think it got across to the American people,” Hertel said. “They really appreciated that the first lady had those concerns.”

She took an active role as first lady and was known to sit in on Cabinet meetings and represent her husband on foreign trips.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten said Carter spent her life, “opening the door wider for the women who came after her.”

“Rosalynn Carter broke new ground as First Lady,” said U.S. Sen. Gary Peters on X. “She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of compassion and humanitarian work.”

Carter served as honorary chair of the President’s Commission on Mental Health and as a member of the Governor’s Commission to Improve Services to the Mentally and Emotionally Handicapped during her husband’s time as governor of Georgia, according to the Carter Center. She continued to advocate for mental health awareness and caregivers throughout her life, authoring two books, “Helping Yourself Help Others,” and “Helping Someone With Mental Illness.”

“She will be remembered for her kindness, grace and compassion,” U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee said on X. “Rosalynn’s steadfast advocacy for mental and physical health care has helped millions in the United States and abroad.”

National reaction: Reactions to the death of Rosalynn Carter, former first lady and global humanitarian

hmackay@detroitnews.com

The Associated Press contributed.