Henry County Remembers Jimmy Carter

By Anthony Rhoads anthony.rhoads@news-daily.com

As McDonough Mayor Sandra Vincent recalled the impact of President Jimmy Carter, one of his statements stood out — his concession speech when he lost the 1980 presidential election to Ronald Reagan.

“President Carter profoundly impacted me as a youth, shaping my understanding of servant leadership and integrity,” she wrote in a statement. “I was deeply moved by his 1980 concession speech, where he said ‘I promised you four years ago that I would never lie to you. So I can’t stand here tonight and say it doesn’t hurt. The people of the United States have made the choice, and of course, I accept that decision, but I have to admit, not with the same enthusiasm that I accepted the decision four years ago.’”

Vincent said his words of grace and humility and what he did post-presidency left an indelible mark on her.

“They profoundly influenced my governance style, teaching me to lead in and out of office with heart and integrity,” Vincent said, adding that his influence and ideals will endure far beyond his years.

“President Carter led with heart, always serving humanity, and I am truly blessed to have witnessed the example of a true servant leader,” she wrote. “President Carter’s unwavering faith and moral clarity have been a beacon of hope for so many. He taught us that leadership is not merely about holding office but serving others with grace, humility and a commitment to justice. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life that was lived in full dedication to God, family and the betterment of the world. We extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family and those touched by his kindness and example.”

In honor of Jimmy Carter, the city of McDonough has drafted a resolution slated to be adopted at the next McDonough City Council meeting.

“President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, led a life of exemplary service, demonstrating unwavering commitment to peace, human rights, and humanitarian efforts both during and after his presidency,” the resolution read in part.

Henry County Board of Commissioners Chair Carlotta Harrell said in a statement that Carter was a visionary leader, proud Georgian and humanitarian.

His unwavering commitment to peace, human rights and public service has left an enduring mark on our nation and the world, Harrell said.

“From his humble beginnings in Plains, Georgia, to his tenure as the 39th president of the United States, President Carter embodied the essence of compassionate leadership,” Harrelll said in the statement. “He dedicated his life to advancing democracy, fighting disease, and uplifting the marginalized, setting a powerful example for us all.”

She added that through the Carter Center, he “worked tirelessly to promote fair elections, combat global health crises, and champion human dignity.”

“His vision for a more inclusive and just world continues to inspire generations,” Harrell said. “On behalf of the Henry County Board of Commissioners, we extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family. Let us honor President Carter’s memory by committing ourselves to service, compassion and justice in our own lives.”

The city of Stockbridge also released an official statement on Carter’s passing.

“The city of Stockbridge Government offers condolences on the passing of the nation’s 39th President of the United States. President Jimmy Carter was Georgia’s own. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. We shall keep them in thought and prayer,” the statement read.

Georgia District 42 Sen. Brian Strickland, R-McDonough said Carter’s impact will be felt for generations to come, long after his passing.

“He is the best example I can think of when it comes to servant leadership,” Strickland said in a statement to the Henry Herald. “He served our state and country in so many ways, providing an inspirational story with his journey to the White House. Beyond that, he spent his time after the Presidency serving others and, while he could have lived anywhere in the world, he chose to come back home to Plains. I will always strive to serve like President Carter and will spend my time in public service attempting to follow his example.”

Jimmy Carter — who was a NASCAR fan — also had ties to Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton as he sold tickets there in the 1960s.