Melania Trump and Eric Holder lead tributes to Rosalynn Carter

Tributes to Rosalynn Carter poured in from across the political spectrum and around the world as well-wishers remembered the former first lady’s ‘heart and devotion.’

Melania Trump led the tributes on Sunday afternoon, writing on X, formerly Twitter: ‘Rosalynn Carter leaves behind a meaningful legacy not only as First Lady but as a wife and mother. 

‘We will always remember her servant’s heart and devotion to her husband, family, and country. May she rest in peace.’

Former President Donald Trump then joined his wife, posting on Truth Social: ‘Melania and I join all Americans in mourning the loss of Rosalynn Carter. She was a devoted First Lady, a great humanitarian, and a beloved wife to her husband for 77 years, President Carter. 

‘Over a life spanning nearly a century, Rosalynn Carter earned the admiration and gratitude of our entire nation.  

‘From her days as a U.S. Navy Spouse, to the Georgia Governor’s Mansion, to her tenure as First Lady of the United States, and her later work at the Carter Center and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, she leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishment and national service. 

‘Our prayers are with the former president, the Carter family, and the entire community of Plains, Georgia, that she loved so much!’  

Former US Attorney General Eric Holder shared his sympathies with the Carter family. 

He said: ‘Rosalynn Carter was a great partner to a consequential President and helped to define the modern role of First Lady. 

‘She was gracious, warm – and determined. My thoughts are with the entire Carter family and especially with the President.’

The hashtag ‘Lady Carter’ was trending on X as thousands shared messages of remembrance. 

New York Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer paid tribute to the ‘passionate humanitarian’, writing online: ‘First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated her life to serving others. 

‘America has lost a passionate humanitarian and champion for people all over the world. My heart goes out to her entire family.’

Both Republicans and Democrats offered their condolences to the Carter family on Sunday after news of her death was announced.

Chuck Grassley, a Republican senator from Iowa, said: ‘Sad news w the passing of First Lady Rosalynn Carter She was an accomplished leader for mental health advocacy & habitat for humanity & so many more worthy causes.

‘Her devotion to her husband Pres Jimmy Carter of 77yrs is unmatched. God bless the Carter family.’

House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), the leader of the House Democratic caucus, joined the tributes to Rosalynn Carter on Sunday with a prayer for the former president’s family.

He said: ‘Deeply saddened by the passing of Rosalynn Carter. A beloved First Lady and wonderful humanitarian, she led a life of service and compassion. May God watch over President Jimmy Carter and their family during this difficult time.’

Comedian Wanda Sykes was one of the first to pay tribute, writing: ‘In remembrance of First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who brought compassion and advocacy to the forefront. 

‘A true inspiration and a woman of substance. Sending love to President Carter and their family. May she rest in peace.’   

Bernice King, the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr, wrote: ‘Today, we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman and dear friend of the King family and The King Center, former First Lady.’

She added: ‘Her commitment to peace and tireless efforts, alongside her husband, former President #JimmyCarter, to make a positive impact on our nation and world will be remembered. 

‘Our hearts are with President Carter and the Carter family during this difficult time.’

Carter’s family paid tribute to her as a ‘loving mother’, with Jimmy Carter, 99, who is in hospice care, saying: ‘Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished.

‘She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.’

The couple’s son Chip Carter said: ‘Besides being a loving mother and extraordinary First Lady, my mother was a great humanitarian in her own right. Her life of service and compassion was an example for all Americans.’