Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter: A Gentle Goodbye — Lessons from Hospice Care

By Roz Jones

As we conclude our series on the extraordinary life of President Jimmy Carter, I want to reflect on his final chapter—a journey through hospice care that was marked by grace, dignity, and love.

When President Carter entered hospice in February 2023, it was a decision that spoke volumes about his character. True to form, he approached end-of-life care as he did everything else: with thoughtfulness and humility. For nearly a year, he remained in the care of his loved ones, supported by a compassionate hospice team that honored his wishes to remain at home.

Hospice care is often misunderstood, but President Carter’s experience highlighted its profound value. It’s not about giving up; it’s about creating a space where life’s final moments can be meaningful and peaceful. With hospice, President Carter was able to spend time with Rosalynn, his family, and close friends—sharing stories, reminiscing, and simply being present.

As caregivers, many of us have walked this road ourselves. It’s never easy, but it’s also a time of connection and reflection that can leave lasting memories. President Carter’s hospice journey reminds us to approach these moments with an open heart, focusing on the quality of life rather than the length of time left.

The Carter family’s decision to be transparent about his care also opened the door for important conversations about end-of-life planning. It’s a reminder for all of us to have those discussions early, ensuring that our loved ones’ wishes are honored.

President Jimmy Carter’s legacy isn’t just in the policies he created or the homes he built—it’s also in the example he set for living and dying with purpose. His life was a testament to the power of love, service, and faith.

As we say goodbye, let’s carry his lessons with us: to serve others, to love deeply, and to approach caregiving with the same compassion he showed in every aspect of his life. Thank you for joining me for this series. I’m here to support you in your caregiving journey, just as President Jimmy Carter inspired us to support one another. Book a consultation with me at the link.

Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!

***Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…***

**1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE:** The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.

**2. Tools and Resources:** Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.

**3. LEARN TO:** Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.

Subscribe Now!

Memories and Milestones: The Carter Legacy of Caregiving

By Roz Jones

When I think about President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter, I’m reminded of the true meaning of partnership. Together, they spent decades not just as husband and wife, but as advocates for one of the most vital and often overlooked roles in society—caregiving.

As caregivers, we know the challenges that come with supporting our loved ones. It’s not just about tending to physical needs but also about creating an environment of dignity and compassion. That’s what the Carters worked tirelessly to promote through the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers (RCI).

Founded in 1987, RCI became a beacon of hope and advocacy for caregivers. Rosalynn, with President Jimmy Carter always by her side, championed the importance of providing resources, training, and emotional support for those caring for aging loved ones, individuals with disabilities, or those facing chronic illness.

The Carters believed caregiving was not just a personal responsibility but a societal one. Through their work, they raised awareness of the emotional and financial toll caregiving takes, while also pushing for systemic changes to support caregivers.

What stands out most to me is how they lived what they preached. Even in their later years, as Rosalynn began facing her own health challenges, President Jimmy Carter became her advocate and caregiver, embodying the same values they had championed for decades.

Their story resonates deeply with those of us in The Caregiver Cafe community. Whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, or friend, the Carters remind us that caregiving is an act of love, one that has the power to transform both the giver and the receiver.

As we move toward the conclusion of this series, we’ll reflect on President Jimmy Carter’s graceful transition through hospice care and the lessons we can learn from his journey. Stay tuned for the final blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series, where we’ll explore the role of hospice in his life and what it can teach us about end-of-life care.

Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!

Subscribe Now!

Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter: Building Homes and Hope with Habitat for Humanity

By Roz Jones

After leaving the White House, President Jimmy Carter could have chosen a quiet retirement. But instead, he rolled up his sleeves—literally—and dedicated the next chapter of his life to serving others in a deeply personal and hands-on way.

When I think about his work with Habitat for Humanity, I’m reminded of how caregiving often calls us to action in the same way. It’s about stepping up, no matter how big or small the task, and giving with your whole heart. That’s exactly what Carter did.

Habitat for Humanity became a natural extension of his values: faith, humility, and service. For decades, President Carter and his wife Rosalynn worked tirelessly to build and restore homes, traveling across the U.S. and even internationally. Together, they helped provide safe and affordable housing to those in need, putting their beliefs into action.

I remember watching news segments showing President Jimmy Carter, hammer in hand, wearing a hard hat and flashing his warm, familiar smile. He wasn’t just a figurehead for the organization—he was actively on the ground, building homes and forging connections.

President Carter’s involvement also helped bring global attention to the housing crisis. Thanks to his efforts, Habitat for Humanity became a household name, inspiring countless volunteers and donors to join the cause.

As caregivers, many of us know the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. President Carter’s work reminds us that the spaces we live in can deeply affect our well-being. His dedication to helping others find a place to call home reflects the same compassion we strive to bring into the lives of our loved ones.

Next, we’ll explore the incredible partnership President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn shared, particularly their work as advocates for caregiving. Their commitment to each other and to caregiving is an inspiration for us all.Join me for the next blog in the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series as we celebrate his advocacy for caregiving alongside Rosalynn Carter.

Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!

Subscribe Now!

Memories and Milestones of Jimmy Carter: The Carter Presidency

By Roz Jones

As we continue to honor President Jimmy Carter’s life and legacy, we turn our focus to the time when he led our nation from the Oval Office. His presidency may have been a single term, but his impact during those four years still resonated over decades..

I was struck by how President Carter, a humble man from rural Georgia, approached the presidency with an unshakable moral compass. He prioritized people and principles over politics, and his leadership laid the foundation for lasting change.

One of President Carter’s most notable achievements was the establishment of the Department of Energy in 1977. Long before renewable energy became a global priority, President Carter recognized the need for energy conservation and sustainability. I remember seeing images of him installing solar panels on the White House roof—a bold and forward-thinking act that underscored his commitment to the environment.

He also championed human rights, making them a cornerstone of his foreign policy. From brokering the Camp David Accords to his efforts for peace in the Middle East, President Carter demonstrated the power of diplomacy driven by empathy and understanding.

For us caregivers, there’s a lesson in his approach. He didn’t shy away from tough conversations or complex issues. Instead, he leaned into them with the belief that every challenge could be met with courage and care. It’s a reminder that in our roles, whether caring for a loved one or navigating a crisis, leading with heart can make all the difference.

President Carter’s presidency also had its share of challenges, but even in the face of adversity, he never wavered in his mission to serve. That’s a legacy worth remembering—not just as Americans, but as people striving to make a difference in our own spheres.

In the next post, we’ll explore how President Carter’s post-presidency work with Habitat for Humanity became another shining chapter in his life of service. Stay with me as we continue this journey of memories and milestones. Don’t miss the next blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter, where I’ll dive into his incredible work building homes and hope with Habitat for Humanity. If you missed the previous blog, A Life Well Lived “His Way”, check it out now.

Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!

Subscribe Now!

Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter: A Life Well Lived “His Way”

By Roz Jones

The world has lost a great president, a man of faith, a father, a husband, a humanitarian, and so much more. President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away peacefully after a long and courageous journey in hospice care.

As we reflect on his remarkable life, I can’t help but think of Frank Sinatra’s famous song, “I Did It My Way.” President Jimmy Carter truly did it his way—with humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.

President Carter’s decision to enter hospice care in February 2023 demonstrated the grace and acceptance that defined his life. For over a year, he remained surrounded by love and care, showing us the power of hospice to create meaningful moments even in life’s final chapter.

As caregivers, we know the immense challenges and rewards of supporting loved ones during this time. President Carter’s journey reminds us that with the right care and compassion, these moments can become beautiful memories.

This is the first in a series of reflections on President Jimmy Carter’s incredible legacy. Over the next two weeks, we’ll explore the milestones and memories that defined his life—from his presidency to his humanitarian work, and his unwavering partnership with his wife Rosalynn Carter.

Let’s honor his legacy by drawing lessons from his remarkable journey—both as a leader and as a man who faced aging and end-of-life with dignity. Join me for the next blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series, where I’ll explore President Jimmy Carter’s impactful presidency and the initiatives he championed for a brighter future.

Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!

Subscribe Now!