Rosalynn Carter, a prominent advocate for mental health reform and an influential figure during her husband's presidency, passed away peacefully on Sunday at the age of 96, according to a statement from the Carter Center. Surrounded by her family at her home in Plains, Georgia, Rosalynn left behind a legacy of compassion, partnership, and dedication to various causes.

Former President Jimmy Carter expressed his deep gratitude for Rosalynn's unwavering support throughout their lives, saying, "Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished... As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me."

The Carter Center had announced on Friday that Rosalynn had entered hospice care after being diagnosed with dementia in May. It is worth mentioning that Jimmy Carter himself had begun home hospice care in February following a series of hospital stays.

During Jimmy Carter's presidency, he and Rosalynn worked tirelessly on world peace and human rights initiatives through their joint efforts at the Carter Center. Notably, they played a vital role in brokering a peace agreement between Israel and Egypt that remains intact to this day. Their post-presidential endeavors also took them to various international locations, such as Cuba, Sudan, and North Korea, where they monitored elections and engaged in efforts to eradicate diseases like Guinea worm disease.

Rosalynn Carter's commitment to mental health advocacy will be one of her most enduring legacies. She played a pivotal role in reducing stigmas surrounding mental illness and fought for proper access to mental health treatment. Additionally, she dedicated her time to the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, situated at her alma mater, Georgia Southwestern State University, which aimed to support families and professional caregivers dealing with disabilities and illnesses.

Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter were honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999 by then-President Bill Clinton, who praised them for their extensive contributions to society. Clinton stated that the Carters had "done more good things for more people in more places than any other couple on Earth."

Their enduring marriage was often highlighted as a shining example of a true American story and a steadfast lifelong partnership. When asked about his proudest accomplishment, Jimmy Carter emphasized that marrying Rosalynn was the pinnacle of his life. The couple's secret to a successful marriage, he shared, was giving each other space while choosing the right partner.

Rosalynn Carter's passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of advocacy, leadership, and service to the nation and the world. As the country mourns the loss of a beloved former first lady, her impact will continue to resonate for years to come.