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Plains locals shared memories, inspiration, and grief after the death of former President Jimmy Carter on December 29. Plains resident Penny Smith spoke of the scope of Carter’s impact. “President Carter was such a big influence on people from all over the world. To the people in Plains, he was our neighbor, our friend.” Smith told how he was a great role model, and that it was a pleasure serving on committees with him and Rosalynn Carter for the betterment of Plains. She shared a final message. “Rest in peace, Mr. Jimmy. Thank you for all you have done for Plains. And thank you for the great memories that you’ve given us. We love you.”

Kelly Kight and Jillian Williams, co-owners of Plains Sweet Stems, were putting up red white and blue ribbons in downtown Plains the day after Carter’s death. Kight shared her feelings in the wake of Carter’s passing. “It’s sad a time, but it’s also a time to remember him and all the good that he’s done.”

She spoke of his effect on the local community, listing tourism and the showcasing of Plains in the national limelight. “Showing people that Plains is, you know, a community that cares about people.”

When asked how the community was faring, Kight replied; “I think the community is proud of all that he has accomplished.” She recounted the parts of his story that brought pride to Plains. “That he was from Plains, and that he was very hard working, and that he wouldn’t probably have been what he is without Plains.

Kight told how his legacy had drawn so many to the small town. “I think people want to share his legacy with their families, with their children.” Kight is a teacher, and shares Carter’s legacy with her own children. “One of my favorite things is to teach my children about Jimmy.”

Owner of the Plains Trading Post, Phillip Kurland, shared his reaction to learning of Carter’s death. “Initially, I was stunned. We knew it was coming, but I had hoped we would be planning for the 101rst birthday, and then it dawned on me, why don’t I accentuate the positive and all the good things he’s done?”

Kurland spoke of Carter’s lasting influence. “He’s had a very, very good life. He’ll always be alive in Plains, and right now my frame of mind is sad, but I’m happy for his legacy and the future.”

He shared Carter’s greatest impact on Plains. “I think his biggest impact will be longevity of the success of Plains.”

Kurland told how Carter had impacted his own life. “The biggest impact he’s had on my life is he’s made me a much more kinder, giving, caring person.”

Plains City Clerk Cynthia Bagwell summed up what most stood out to her about Carter. “Just an all-around good, good person.” She shared how he valued others. “He always made you feel like you were important.”