She was the first presidential spouse to set up an office in the East Wing and hire a full staff. Many recalled Rosalynn Carter carrying a brief case filled with papers to the office every day.
She was a trusted adviser to the president, a participant in foreign and domestic affairs and often set up weekly meetings with Jimmy Carter in the Oval Office, Kate Anderson Brower, author of "First Women: The Grace and Power of America's Modern First Ladies," told USA Today in 2018.
Carter traveled the world, promoting her own platform of improving mental health care and her husband's position on human rights. She lobbied for the Equal Rights Amendment which granted legal gender equality to women and men.
Rosalynn Carter was known for her advocacy in mental health, caregiving, and women's rights. She worked to destigmatize mental health issues and was instrumental in the passage of the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980. Additionally, she was active in promoting the Equal Rights Amendment and supported numerous social causes.
Rosalynn Carter played a significant role as an advisor to President Jimmy Carter. She attended Cabinet meetings, traveled extensively on his behalf, and was deeply involved in policy discussions. Her influence and support were pivotal in both his campaign and his administration.
After her tenure as First Lady, Rosalynn Carter continued her advocacy work, particularly in mental health and caregiving. She co-founded The Carter Center with her husband, focusing on human rights and global health. She also authored several books on caregiving and mental health issues.
Rosalynn Carter's early life in Plains, Georgia, instilled in her a strong sense of community and service. Growing up during the Great Depression, she developed resilience and a deep understanding of social issues, which influenced her advocacy work as First Lady and beyond.
Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a legacy of compassion, advocacy, and service. Her work in mental health reform, support for caregivers, and contributions to human rights through The Carter Center have had a lasting impact. She is remembered as a dedicated public servant who used her platform to champion important social causes.