The Enduring Legacy: Where Are Jimmy Carter's Four Children Now? (2025 Update)

The family of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in late 2024, has been a quiet but powerful force in American public life for decades, long after their time in the White House. As the world reflects on the monumental legacy of the 39th U.S. President and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, attention turns to their four children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—who are now entrusted with carrying forward the family's humanitarian mission.

As of December 2025, the Carter children maintain a diverse range of careers, from technology and business to law and activism, but their collective focus remains firmly rooted in the work of The Carter Center and preserving the spirit of their parents' lifelong commitment to service. Their lives offer a unique glimpse into the challenges and responsibilities of being the children of a global humanitarian icon.

Jimmy Carter’s Children: A Complete Family Biography

Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter raised four children—three sons and one daughter—who were born in various locations during the former President’s naval career. Their lives have been defined by their parents' public service, their own professional paths, and their unified dedication to The Carter Center.

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• John William "Jack" Carter
• Born: July 3, 1947, Portsmouth, Virginia
• Education: Georgia Tech, Emory University, University of Georgia School of Law
• Career Highlights: U.S. Navy officer, businessman, attorney, and political candidate (unsuccessfully ran for U.S. Senate in Nevada in 2006).
• James Earl "Chip" Carter III
• Born: April 12, 1950, Honolulu, Hawaii
• Education: Attended Georgia Southwestern College
• Career Highlights: Worked in the family's peanut business in Plains, Georgia, served as a liaison and emissary for his father during the presidency, and remains involved in the family's activities in Plains.
• Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter
• Born: August 18, 1952, New London, Connecticut
• Education: George Washington University (Geography)
• Career Highlights: Co-founder of Computer Mapping Consultants, Inc., a successful technology firm specializing in geographical information systems (GIS).
• Amy Lynn Carter
• Born: October 19, 1967, Plains, Georgia
• Education: Brown University, Tulane University, Memphis College of Art
• Career Highlights: Author, political activist, social worker, and currently serves as a board member for The Carter Center. She is the only child to have lived in the White House as a young girl.

The Ongoing Work: How the Children Uphold the Carter Center Mission

The most significant aspect of the Carter children’s current public lives is their collective involvement with The Carter Center, the non-profit organization founded by their parents in 1982 in partnership with Emory University. The Center, dedicated to advancing peace and health worldwide, is the primary vehicle for the Carter family's continuing legacy. Their roles ensure the Center's mission remains true to the vision of its founders.

Amy Carter: The Quiet Activist and Board Member

Amy Carter, the youngest of the four, has embraced a life of quiet but impactful activism, a path she began in her college years. Unlike her brothers, she has largely shunned the political spotlight, focusing instead on her academic and humanitarian interests. Today, Amy is one of the most visible of the children in the Center's leadership, serving as a vital member of the Board of Trustees.

Her role involves guiding the organization’s strategic direction, which includes global initiatives like disease eradication, election monitoring, and conflict resolution. Her commitment reflects the deep social conscience instilled by her parents, particularly her mother, Rosalynn Carter, who was a champion for mental health and caregiving. Amy’s current focus is ensuring the Center’s programs remain robust and sustainable in the post-founder era.

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Chip Carter: The Family’s Public Voice

James Earl "Chip" Carter III, who grew up working in the family's peanut farming business in Plains, Georgia, has often served as a public face for the family during key moments. Chip's deep connection to his parents' roots and his experience as an emissary during the presidency make him a natural spokesperson.

Following the passing of both his mother and father, Chip delivered a moving eulogy, praising The Carter Center as the embodiment of his father's desire to use his post-presidency to help others. This public role highlights his commitment to upholding the family's values of service and community, particularly in their home state of Georgia.

From Politics to Technology: The Sons' Diverse Careers

While all four children support The Carter Center, Jack and Jeff have built substantial professional careers outside of traditional public service, though their work still reflects the Carter family's characteristic independence and intellect.

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Jack Carter: Business, Law, and the Political Attempt

John William "Jack" Carter, the eldest son, pursued a career that blended law, business, and a brief, high-profile foray into electoral politics. After serving in the U.S. Navy and earning a law degree, Jack established himself as a successful businessman and attorney. His most notable political venture came in 2006 when he ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Nevada.

Although his Senate bid was unsuccessful, the campaign demonstrated the family's willingness to engage in the political arena. In recent years, Jack has stepped away from active political participation to focus on his business interests and family matters, maintaining a more private life.

Jeff Carter: The Tech Entrepreneur

Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter carved out a distinct path in the world of technology. After graduating with a degree in geography, he co-founded Computer Mapping Consultants, Inc. The company specializes in Geographical Information Systems (GIS), a field that uses technology to analyze and map spatial data.

His work in computer mapping showcases an innovative and technical side of the Carter family, applying advanced technology to solve complex problems, a spirit that aligns with the data-driven approach of many Carter Center initiatives. Jeff's career is a testament to the family's diverse talents beyond traditional politics.

The Next Generation: Carter Grandchildren Continuing the Public Service

The Carter legacy is not just carried by the four children, but also by a large number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many of whom have taken up prominent roles in public life and at The Carter Center. This next generation provides the clearest evidence that the family's commitment to service is a multi-generational endeavor. The Carters have 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Jason Carter: Leading The Carter Center Board

Perhaps the most prominent figure of the third generation is Jack Carter's son, Jason Carter. Jason is an attorney, a former Georgia State Senator, and was the Democratic nominee for Governor of Georgia in 2014. More importantly, he currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Carter Center.

His leadership role places him at the helm of the organization, ensuring its continuity and growth. Jason frequently speaks about his grandfather's life and values, offering a unique perspective on the former President's humanitarian work and private life.

James Carter IV: The Political Analyst

Another influential grandson is James Carter IV, Chip Carter's son, who has become known for his work in political research and opposition intelligence. James gained public attention for his analysis during political campaigns, demonstrating a sharp political mind and a commitment to democratic processes that echoes his grandfather’s work in election monitoring.

The dedication of grandchildren like Jason and James, alongside the active participation of the four children, ensures that the humanitarian principles of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter—peace, health, and democracy—will continue to influence global affairs for generations to come. The family's collective effort is a powerful example of a public service legacy that transcends political office and focuses on making a tangible difference in the world, particularly through their work in Plains, Georgia, and the global reach of The Carter Center.