President Joe Biden on Sunday called Jimmy Carter “an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian” as he joined the chorus of condolences following the 39th president’s death.
“With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us,” Biden wrote. “He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe. He was a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism. We will always cherish seeing him and Rosalynn together.
“The love shared between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter is the definition of partnership and their humble leadership is the definition of patriotism,” the president said.
Carter, 100, passed away Sunday in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he was in hospice care for nearly two years.
Follow the latest on President Jimmy Carter’s death
Biden said he will order a state funeral for Carter to be held for the former president, Georgia governor and US Navy veteran in Washington, D.C.
“To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world,” the president wrote. “To their staff – from the earliest days to the final ones – we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy.”
