The Enduring Legacy: Where Are Jimmy Carter's Four Children Now In 2025?

The passing of former President Jimmy Carter in late 2024 marked the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to public service, but it was far from the end of the Carter family's humanitarian mission. A figure of immense global stature, Carter and his beloved wife, Rosalynn, built a powerful legacy of peace, human rights, and disease eradication through The Carter Center, a mission now wholeheartedly embraced and continued by their children and grandchildren. This deep dive, updated for December 2025, explores the current lives and unique professional paths of the four Carter children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—and how they are upholding one of America's most respected political family legacies. The Carter children—three sons and one daughter—each carved out distinct careers, often blending public service with private enterprise, but all remain intrinsically linked to the values instilled in them growing up in Plains, Georgia, and later, the White House. From political consulting and environmental advocacy to fine arts and computer technology, their diverse paths demonstrate the breadth of their parents' influence. Their collective efforts ensure that the name Carter remains synonymous with global humanitarian work and a commitment to a more peaceful world.

The Complete Biography of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's Children

Former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter raised four children: three sons and one daughter. Their lives spanned from the quiet peanut farm in Plains to the global stage of the White House, creating a unique upbringing that shaped their adult lives and careers.

• John William "Jack" Carter
• Born: July 3, 1947, in Portsmouth, Virginia.
• Primary Career: Businessman, Attorney, Politician, and Environmentalist.
• Notable: Served in the U.S. Navy. Unsuccessfully ran for the U.S. Senate in Nevada in 2006. Focuses on investment and environmental advocacy.
• James Earl "Chip" Carter III
• Born: April 12, 1950, in Honolulu, Hawaii.
• Primary Career: Political Consultant and Campaign Strategist.
• Notable: Was a prominent figure in his father's 1976 presidential campaign. His son, Jason Carter, now serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Carter Center.
• Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter
• Born: August 18, 1952, in New London, Connecticut.
• Primary Career: Computer Mapping Consultant and Geographer.
• Notable: Co-founded Computer Mapping Consultants, a company specializing in blending technology and business. Known as the most private of the Carter children.
• Amy Lynn Carter
• Born: October 19, 1967, in Plains, Georgia.
• Primary Career: Artist, Illustrator, and Political Activist.
• Notable: The youngest child, she spent her early years in the White House. Known for her outspoken political activism, particularly against apartheid in South Africa, and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree.

The Sons: Political Strategy, Environmental Advocacy, and Technology

The three Carter sons—Jack, Chip, and Jeff—have pursued careers that reflect a diverse blend of their father’s political and engineering background. Each has found a unique way to contribute to the family's legacy, often away from the direct glare of the national spotlight.

Jack Carter: The Businessman and Environmental Advocate

John William "Jack" Carter, the eldest son, has had a varied and dynamic career. After serving in the U.S. Navy and graduating from the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Georgia School of Law, Jack established a successful career in business and investing. While he made a brief, high-profile foray into politics with his 2006 Senate campaign in Nevada, his current focus is heavily weighted toward environmental issues and resource scarcity. In the wake of his father’s passing, Jack has been vocal about the need to continue the Carter family’s commitment to a sustainable future, a mission that resonates with the former President’s own dedication to renewable energy and conservation. His work often involves consulting on projects that merge economic viability with ecological responsibility, a modern continuation of the Carter values.

Chip Carter: The Political Architect and Family Anchor

James Earl "Chip" Carter III is arguably the most deeply entrenched in the political machinery that defined his father's ascent. Having played a crucial role in the 1976 presidential campaign, Chip has since worked as a political consultant, leveraging his unique experience as a former "First Son." Today, his most significant contribution to the Carter legacy is through his family. His son, Jason Carter, a former Georgia State Senator, now serves as the influential Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Carter Center. This generational leadership transition ensures that the Carter name remains at the helm of the organization, focusing on democracy, health, and peace initiatives globally. Chip’s role is vital in maintaining the institutional memory and political connections necessary to sustain the Center's global operations.

Jeff Carter: The Quiet Innovator in Computer Mapping

Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter, often described as the most reserved of the children, chose a path rooted in technology and geography. After studying at George Washington University, Jeff co-founded Computer Mapping Consultants, a company that pioneered the use of technology for geographical information systems (GIS) and business applications. This career choice reflects a quiet innovation, a practical application of his intellectual pursuits, which aligns with his father's engineering background. While Jeff maintains a low public profile, his work in blending business with advanced technology is a key component of the family's diverse professional landscape. His commitment to a private life contrasts with the political spotlight, yet his technical expertise represents a modern, essential field of study.

Amy Carter: Activism, Art, and Upholding a White House Legacy

Amy Lynn Carter holds a special place in American political history as the last child to live in the White House as a minor, captivating the nation during her father's presidency. As an adult, Amy has channeled her energy into two powerful fields: political activism and fine arts. Her commitment to social justice became evident early on when she participated in protests against apartheid in South Africa while attending Brown University. This passion for human rights and systemic change is a direct echo of her parents' lifelong work. Today, Amy continues to be a devoted artist and illustrator, having earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Memphis College of Art. Her artistic endeavors often intersect with her social consciousness, providing a creative outlet for her deeply held beliefs. In late 2025, the enduring relevance of her activism was highlighted by a student-curated exhibit at UMass Amherst, which featured her past political actions, demonstrating that her legacy as a young, outspoken activist continues to inspire new generations. Amy, who lives in the Atlanta area with her family, including her son, represents the family's commitment to a quiet, impactful life, balancing her public history with her private passion for art and social change.

Continuing the Carter Humanitarian Legacy

The greatest continuity of the Carter family's values is found in their commitment to The Carter Center and their dedication to Habitat for Humanity. Following the passing of their parents, the four children and their extended family have rallied to ensure these institutions not only survive but thrive. The Carter Center, founded by Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter in 1982, remains the central vehicle for the family's global mission. With Chip's son, Jason Carter, serving as the Chairman, the family maintains direct control and guidance over the organization's initiatives, which include fighting neglected tropical diseases, observing democratic elections, and promoting mental health awareness, a cause championed by Rosalynn Carter. The children frequently participate in events and discussions related to the Center's work, providing a visible link to the founders and reassuring global partners that the legacy of peace and health will endure. Their collective efforts ensure that the Carter name continues to stand for unselfish love, human rights, and a relentless pursuit of global peace, cementing their place as one of the most dedicated presidential families in modern history.