Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a man whose deep Christian faith shaped both his presidency and his extensive humanitarian work, passed away on February 18, 2024, at his home in Plains, Georgia. His death came after entering hospice care in February 2023, marking the end of the longest post-presidency in American history.

Carter’s Christian faith was not merely a personal matter but a guiding force throughout his public life. As president, he brought his Baptist beliefs into the White House, continuing to teach Sunday School even during his presidency. His administration was marked by efforts to infuse policy with moral principles, most notably in his emphasis on human rights in foreign policy and his pursuit of peace in the Middle East, culminating in the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt.

Perhaps his most enduring legacy came after leaving office, when Carter and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, dedicated to advancing human rights and alleviating suffering worldwide. His work with Habitat for Humanity, spanning over four decades, helped build and renovate more than 4,300 homes across 14 countries, making affordable housing a reality for countless families.

In the African American faith community, Carter held a special place of reverence. His commitment to racial equality, dating back to his time as Georgia’s governor, and his understanding of the church’s role in civil rights earned him lasting respect. Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, a prominent civil rights leader, noted that “Carter understood that faith without works is dead. He lived his Christianity through action, not just words.”

Carter’s dedication to teaching Sunday School at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains well into his 90s demonstrated his commitment to sharing his faith. His classes drew visitors from around the world, turning a small Georgia church into an unexpected pilgrimage site. His lessons often emphasized the practical application of Christian principles to contemporary challenges, from environmental stewardship to poverty reduction.

As tributes pour in from religious leaders worldwide, many highlight Carter’s unique ability to bridge faith and public service. His example of living his faith through action, whether building homes with Habitat for Humanity or mediating international conflicts, set a standard for faith-based leadership that transcended political divisions.

Carter’s passing marks not just the loss of a former president, but of a moral beacon whose Christian witness extended far beyond the pulpit or political office. His legacy reminds us that faith, when paired with action, can be a powerful force for positive change in the world.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as countless lives touched by his lifetime of service. In his final years, Carter spoke often of being at peace with death, secure in his faith and grateful for a life well-lived in service to others.