Georgia, Dec 31, (V7N) - In the hometown of Jimmy Carter, Plains, Georgia, people gathered to pay their respects to the former president, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday. The town, known for its close connection to Carter, became a place of remembrance as locals and visitors reflected on his legacy.
 
On Monday morning, two National Park Service rangers placed wreaths, marked with black ribbons, at the doors of Plains High School. The school is now a visitor's center dedicated to Carter’s life and work. Sandra Hicks, who lives in nearby Americus, was visiting with her grandsons to teach them about the president’s roots. She recalled meeting Carter while working at a photo center in Americus, describing him as always approachable, even with Secret Service around.
 
Hicks’ grandson, 11-year-old Jaxson Hughes, said it was special to have a president from their area who understood local struggles and worked to advocate for the people. Hicks also highlighted Carter’s humanitarian work, especially with Habitat for Humanity, and said he helped change the culture of Americus by promoting care and kindness for everyone.
 
Dave and Nancy Shelbourne, a couple from Indianapolis, stopped in Plains after hearing about Carter's death. They wanted to honor the president who shared a name with their grandson. “It’s just nice to know there are still good people in the world doing things for humanity,” Dave Shelbourne said.
 
In the hours following Carter's passing, the only business open in Plains was Dollar General. Penny Smith, a long-time resident, recalled working with Carter on several local projects, including the Friends of Jimmy Carter National Historic Site. She shared a personal story of how Carter, even as president, came to her for advice on zoning for a house he was building in Plains. “He loved everybody,” Smith said, remembering his natural ability to bring peace and connect with people.
 
Brad Bagwell, another former Plains resident, described Carter as the “fabric of the community,” someone who always cared about the people.
 
At Carter's Boyhood Farm, visitors continued to arrive throughout the day. Dawn Tarpley and Holly Cooper, two sisters from Texas, were visiting the farm with their dog, Mishka. They admired Carter for his strong beliefs and honorable life. "He just lived his life in an honorable way," Tarpley said.
 
Robin Melton, who arrived with her family from Columbus, Georgia, said Carter’s passing reminded her of her own father, who shared similar values. "He believed in prayer," she said. Melton visited Plains to connect with the places where Carter had lived and to be part of this moment in history.
 
Robin Collins, who moved to the area three years ago, noticed the positive impact Carter had on the community, bringing businesses to the small town. She visited the farm with her three grandsons to honor his memory.
 
As the town of Plains continues to mourn, people are reflecting on the life of Jimmy Carter, a local hero who became president and left a lasting legacy of kindness, peace, and service to others.
 
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