Evangelical leaders react to Jimmy Carter's death: 'An example for us all'
Franklin Graham
Franklin Graham, son of the late evangelist Billy Graham, was among the first to publicly pay tribute to Carter, recalling the former president's long-standing relationship with his family.
"Former President Jimmy Carter died today at the age of 100 after more than a year in hospice care," Graham wrote on social media. "He served as our nation's 39th president during a turbulent time in the 70s and 80s, facing inflation, an oil shortage, and a hostage crisis in Iran."
Graham also acknowledged the "close relationship" between his father and Carter.
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"He and my father, Billy Graham, had a close relationship, and we were honored to have him join us for the dedication of the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte in 2007. I know that his family would appreciate your prayers."
Carter's personal connection to the Graham family goes back at least half a century.
As governor of Georgia, Carter was named honorary chairman for Billy Graham's 1973 crusade event in Atlanta. Over 20 years later, Carter spoke at another Billy Graham Crusade event in Atlanta.
At a 2007 dedication ceremony for the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, Carter named Billy Graham when asked who had the biggest spiritual influence on his life, saying he "was constantly broadminded, forgiving, humble, in his treatment of others."
