President Jimmy Carter died Sunday Dec. 29, 2024, after spending over a year in hospice care.

Carter, who turned 100 on Oct. 1 and is the longest-lived president in American history, died at his home in Plains Sunday surrounded by family, according to the Carter Center.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” Chip Carter, the former president’s son, said in a statement. “My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”

Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement: “America has lost a faithful and selfless public servant. While he faced a number of political challenges throughout his time in office, it was President Carter’s generosity, honesty, and deep religious roots that characterized his life.

“It was the same generosity and honesty that brought then-President Carter back to Elk City, Oklahoma in 1979 after he promised Elk City Mayor Larry Wade he’d be back if he won the ‘76 election. Very few have forgotten the warm greetings and smiles shared with President Carter as he graced our community for a town hall meeting and a Sunday church service. I extend my deepest condolences to the Carter family in this somber hour.”