HONOLULU (KHON2) — Former President Jimmy Carter, the longest-lived president in United States history, peacefully died in Plains, Ga. on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 100 years old.
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Former President Jimmy Carter gets in limo with former U.S. Reps. Cec Heftel (D-HI) and Daniel Akaka (D-HI) on July 1, 1979. (Courtesy: John A Titchen) -
Former President Jimmy Carter walks and greets at then-Hickam Air Force Officers’ Club on July 1, 1979. (Courtesy: John A Titchen) -
Photo of former President Jimmy Carter on July 1, 1979. (Courtesy: John A Titchen) -
Former President Jimmy Carter gives a speech at then-Hickam Air Force Officers’ Club on July 1, 1979. (Courtesy: John A Titchen)
Jimmy Carter and his late wife Rosalynn had several ties to Hawaii. The family of six lived on Oahu while Carter was a Navy officer assigned to the USS Pomfret based at Pearl Harbor.
Decades later, the 1976 election was so close that Hawaii’s four electoral votes helped make a difference in his favor, along with a handful of other states that were still counting overnight.
In 1979, Jimmy Carter spoke in front of a crowd at Hickam Air Force Base and called Hawaii “one of the places on earth closest to our hearts.”
He was welcomed by then-governor George Ariyoshi and late-senator Daniel Akaka.
While the nation mourns his passing, multiple Hawaii leaders shared their testament, sending their heartfelt aloha to President Carter’s family.
In a statement, Governor Josh Green M.D. said Carter’s life was defined by service, compassion and his commitment to justice and peace.
“His tireless efforts for human rights, global diplomacy and humanitarian causes exemplify the values of aloha that we hold so dear in Hawai‘i. He reminded us all of the power of humility, kindness and a deep care for others,” said Green.
Green added that his work left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring future generations.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said President Carter embodied the true meaning of leadership grounded in integrity and a deep care for humanity.
“President Carter’s lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and helping those in need resonated long after his time in the White House. His commitment to initiatives like Habitat for Humanity and his relentless efforts to eradicate disease and poverty were reflections of a heart driven by empathy and purpose,” Blangiardi said. His legacy will continue to guide us in our pursuit of a kinder, more just world. Aloha Mr. President.”
U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) highlighted President Carter’s efforts to protect the environment, expand clean energy, champion human rights and advance Middle East peace.
“His legacy of service, kindness and generosity will live on. My deepest condolences go out to the entire Carter family,” Schatz added.
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The former president is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.