PLAINS, Ga. (AP) — The world is mourning the passing of former U.S. president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100, surrounded by family in the home he built with his late wife, Rosalynn, before embarking on his political journey over sixty years ago. The news of his death reverberated quickly through the small town of Plains, Georgia, a place he significantly elevated by his presence and global influence.

Johnny Jones, a lifelong resident of Plains, reflected on the emotional atmosphere: "His presence here in Plains has really boosted the morale of everyone who lives here." As signs of mourning appeared throughout the town, including black ribbons and U.S. flags, Plains residents shared their memories of the Carters, illustrating how the humble town of fewer than 700 people has a lasting legacy intertwined with their former president's remarkable journey.

Soon after the announcement, the main street of Plains became a focal point for media coverage, with TV cameras capturing the essence of a community deeply affected by Carter's passing. His influence nearby was palpable; the old train depot used as his headquarters during the 1976 presidential campaign stood just a few blocks away from the family’s peanut warehouses, which became a backdrop for nostalgic recollections.

As tributes poured in from around the globe, plans for state ceremonies in Washington, D.C. were made, with President Joe Biden announcing that January 9, 2025, would be a national day of mourning, closing federal offices for Carter’s state funeral at the National Cathedral. Biden, a close personal friend of Carter, is expected to deliver a heartfelt eulogy, honoring the legacy of a man who profoundly changed the landscape of American politics and humanitarian efforts.

Tributes have not only come from American officials; international recognition was also evident. The U.N. Security Council held a moment of silence in honor of Carter, describing him as a “peacemaker who worked tirelessly and effectively in support of conflict mediation, the furtherance of human rights, and the strengthening of democracy.” From cooperative efforts that improved U.S.-China relations to his outspoken critiques of governmental policies, Carter's contributions to global diplomacy were widely acknowledged.

In Plains, community members lit candles and participated in a silent vigil at Maranatha Baptist Church, where the Carters taught Sunday school. Locals reminisced about Carter's personal touch and dedication to the town. Philip Kurland, who owns a political memorabilia shop, shared, “We’re in a state of denial. I was telling people: Let’s start planning for his 101st birthday.”

In addition to his political legacy, the Carters are celebrated for their humanitarian work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, where they helped foster growth and awareness for housing projects benefiting low-income families. CEO Jonathan Reckford praised Carter’s significant role, stating, “Habitat was founded in 1976, and it was a tiny organization when President and Mrs. Carter famously wrote a bus up from south Georgia to spend a week sleeping in a church basement.”

Jason Carter, the grandson of the former president and current chairman of the Carter Center, articulated how Plains shaped his grandfather's ethos. “My grandfather could go to a village anywhere in the world and help people without patronizing them because he was from a village like that himself,” he said, emphasizing the true spirit of service that defined Jimmy Carter.

As residents of Plains grapple with a sense of loss, they also express hope that the legacy of the Carters will endure. Jill Stuckey, an overseer of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, shared that while personal sadness lingers, the Carters took steps to ensure a lasting impact on their hometown, which will continue to thrive in their absence. “Since the moment Rosalynn passed, he wanted to be with her,” Stuckey noted. “Knowing that he’s finally reunited with Rosalynn is a wonderful thing.” The Carters planned to be buried where their story began, their home and gravesite expecting to attract future generations.

For more information on Jimmy Carter's remarkable life and legacy, visit HuffPost or AP News.