Rosalynn Carter, wife of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, dies aged 96

Colombo (News 1st) - Former U.S. First Lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of President Jimmy Carter, has aged 96, U.S. media reported.

She had entered hospice care a week ago, together with her husband who has been in hospice care for several months and is aged 99.

Mrs. Carter worked for many years for mental health causes, both before and after her husband's presidency from 1977-80.

Their humanitarian work resulted in Jimmy Carter being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

"Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished," Mr. Carter said in the statement. "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."

They were the longest-married first couple, having been married for 77 years.  They had four children, 12 grandchildren and 14 grandchildren.

"On behalf of a grateful nation, we send our love to the entire Carter family and the countless people whose lives are better, fuller, and brighter because of Rosalynn Carter," President Biden posted on X, formerly Twitter.