PLAINS, Ga. — Following their years in the White House, former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, could have chosen any location in the world to call home. However, they made a conscious decision to return to Plains, Georgia, where their roots run deep within the community.
From the annual Peanut Festival to the Maranatha Baptist Church, the Carters embraced life in Plains, forging an unprecedented relationship between a community and a president, or any political candidate, as observed by Tom DeTitta, a resident of nearby Americus. DeTitta expressed gratitude Sunday for the times he had the opportunity to meet the Carters, reflecting on the bond between the community and the presidential couple.
"It's an unprecedented relationship between the community and [a] president or really candidate of any nature that we've never seen before and maybe we'll never see again," DeTitta said.
Now reminiscing about Rosalynn Carter's legacy, DeTitta highlighted her significance as one of the most influential first ladies in history.
"I think what people will ultimately realize is that she is probably one of, if not the most significant first ladies of all time. No other first lady was actually involved in executing the presidency like she was," he said.
In the global arena, Rosalynn Carter is remembered as a champion of mental health, caregiving, and women's rights. In her hometown of Plains, she is celebrated as a loving mother, wife, and aunt, leaving a legacy of kindness that resonates throughout the community.
View photos of Rosalynn Carter's early life below. The story continues after the gallery.
On Sunday morning, the Carter's niece, Kim Fuller, stood before the congregation, preaching not only from the Bible but also from her heart.
"I feel really blessed that I was able to be with them. I feel really blessed that I was able to talk to them," Fuller said. "That's what Aunt Rosalynn's legacy is—showing kindness to people, showing kindness to the community."
She shared advice from her aunt Rosalynn and how her legacy can be carried on through everyone.
"I believe that one of the most important things to learn in life is that you can make a difference in your community no matter who you are or where you go," she said.
As Plains continues to cherish its connection with the Carters, the couple's enduring impact is a testament to the power of community and the indelible mark of a compassionate legacy.