Photo credit: By Department of Defense. Department of the Navy. Naval Photographic Center
As an organization deeply committed to compassionate, patient-centered care, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Carter family and to all who were inspired by his remarkable life and legacy. President Carter’s passing is made even more moving as he joins his beloved wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November of last year.
Born on October 1, 1924, President Carter rose from humble beginnings as a peanut farmer to serve as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. His presidency was marked by efforts to foster peace and diplomacy, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his tireless work to resolve conflicts, promote democracy, and advocate for human rights.
“Jimmy Carter is a personal inspiration to me,” shared Dr. Brian Leese, a hospice physician at Housecall Providers. “Growing up in the ’80s, the name Jimmy Carter was often accompanied by dismissive remarks. But time has revealed the depth of his character and the enduring impact of his work. He was a man of science and compassion who understood that serving others is the greatest gift we can give. It’s said that people die as they live, and President Carter’s peaceful passing reflects the grace and love with which he lived his life.”
Rebecca Ramsay, CEO of Housecall Providers, reflected on President Carter’s enduring legacy, stating: "I was just eight years old when Jimmy Carter became president, far too young to grasp the weight of the office. Over the years, what has inspired me most is how he used the recognition of his presidency to lead a life of profound servant leadership. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center exemplifies his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the world’s poorest people. President Carter’s priorities and actions reflect one of my deepest values: that health care is a basic human right, and advancing health is a crucial step toward global peace."
In February 2023, the Carter Center announced that President Carter had chosen hospice care in his final months—a journey that ultimately spanned nearly two years. His decision not only highlighted the value of hospice care but also served as a powerful lesson to the nation about embracing the end-of-life process with dignity and grace. Hospice care provides comprehensive, palliative treatment to patients and their families, ensuring comfort and support during life’s most challenging moments.
President Carter’s time on hospice demonstrated that hospice is not just about the end of life; it’s about living fully and prioritizing quality of life in one’s final chapter. His choice underscored the critical importance of compassionate care and brought national attention to the benefits of a model that honors everyone’s journey with dignity, respect, and purpose.
“Our work at Housecall Providers is deeply aligned with President Carter’s choice,” Ramsay added. “Hospice is not about giving up—it’s about ensuring that every individual and their loved ones receive the support and care they need when they need it.”
President Carter’s remarkable life, characterized by a steadfast commitment to humanity and service, serves as a guiding light for Housecall Providers to keep our mission in front of us and to never waver in our efforts to deliver exceptional care to those facing advanced illness or declining health. And his choice to receive hospice care serves as a reminder that the choice is about how to live life to its fullest. He certainly did that. Housecall Providers pays tribute to the incredible gifts his spirit of service brought to people across the world. May we all find strength and dignity in service and in life.
