The Enduring Legacy: Where Are Jimmy Carter’s 4 Children And 11 Grandchildren Now In 2025?
The Carter family remains a powerful symbol of public service and enduring dedication to global peace, even as the world reflects on the life and monumental achievements of former President Jimmy Carter. As of December 22, 2025, the four children—John William “Jack” Carter, James Earl “Chip” Carter III, Donnel Jeffrey “Jeff” Carter, and Amy Lynn Carter—continue to uphold the humanitarian mission established by their parents, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. Their lives, spanning decades of public scrutiny and private commitment, offer a fascinating look at navigating a famous political legacy while forging individual paths in law, business, filmmaking, and activism.
The recent period has been one of profound reflection for the family, marked by the passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the subsequent national observances for the former President in early 2025. This time has underscored the family’s unity and their unwavering focus on The Carter Center’s mission. From the eldest son's career in law to the youngest daughter's quiet life as an activist and mother, here is an in-depth look at the current activities and lasting impact of the Carter children and the next generation of grandchildren who are now stepping into leadership roles.
Jimmy Carter's Children: A Complete Family Biography and Profile
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter raised their four children—three sons and one daughter—in Plains, Georgia, before their move to the White House in 1977. Their lives have been characterized by a blend of public service, political engagement, and a deep commitment to privacy.
- Full Name: John William "Jack" Carter
- Born: July 3, 1947 (Age 78 in 2025)
- Spouse: Elizabeth Brasfield
- Children: Jason Carter and Sarah Carter (from his first marriage to Juliet Langford)
- Career: Attorney, Businessman, Politician, Environmentalist
- Full Name: James Earl "Chip" Carter III
- Born: April 12, 1950 (Age 75 in 2025)
- Spouse: Becky Payne (divorced), Ginger Hodges (divorced), Elizabeth "Libby" Dolvin (divorced)
- Children: James Carter IV and Margaret Carter
- Career: Political Consultant, Former Democratic National Committee staffer
- Full Name: Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter
- Born: August 18, 1952 (Age 73 in 2025)
- Spouse: Annette J. Davis
- Children: Joshua Carter and Jeremy Carter
- Career: Computer Specialist, Filmmaker, Environmental Consultant
- Full Name: Amy Lynn Carter
- Born: October 19, 1967 (Age 58 in 2025)
- Spouse: John Joseph "Jay" Kelly
- Children: Hugo Wentzel and Errol Kelly
- Career: Political Activist, Author, Board Member of The Carter Center
The Current Lives and Professional Pursuits of the Carter Siblings
Despite growing up in the spotlight, each of the Carter children has carved out a unique professional path, often returning to the core values of public service and social justice instilled by their parents. Their current activities, especially in the wake of recent family losses, are heavily focused on preserving and advancing the Carter legacy.
John William "Jack" Carter: The Attorney and Political Challenger
The eldest son, John William “Jack” Carter, has had a diverse career that spans law, finance, and politics. After serving in the U.S. Navy and graduating from the University of Georgia School of Law, Jack pursued a career in business and finance. His most notable public venture was his run for the U.S. Senate in Nevada in 2006, where he challenged the incumbent.
Today, Jack Carter maintains a relatively private life but remains a devoted member of the extended Carter family. His work often reflects the environmental and social justice themes central to his father's post-presidency. His presence and support for The Carter Center’s initiatives are a quiet but constant affirmation of the family’s commitment to human rights and democracy.
James Earl "Chip" Carter III: The Public Face and Family Speaker
James Earl “Chip” Carter III has often been the most visible of the sons in political and public life, having served on the staff of the Democratic National Committee.
In early 2025, Chip Carter was a prominent figure during the memorial services for his father, delivering moving remarks that highlighted the unique partnership between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. He spoke eloquently about how "The two of them together changed the world," emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defined the former President and First Lady’s joint mission. Chip's role in these public tributes solidified his position as a key voice for the family, ensuring the world understands the depth of their parents' personal and professional bond. He continues to be a strong advocate for The Carter Center's global health and peace initiatives.
Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter: The Computer Specialist and Shiest Son
Donnel Jeffrey “Jeff” Carter, often described as the shiest of the Carter children, chose a path largely outside the political spotlight. After attending George Washington University, he decided to pursue a career in computer-related work and filmmaking. His professional life has involved working as a computer specialist, a field that allowed him to maintain a degree of privacy and focus on technical and creative pursuits.
Jeff Carter's low-profile career is a testament to the family's ability to support individual choices, even within the constraints of a major political dynasty. While he avoids the public eye, he remains connected to the family’s philanthropic work and legacy.
Amy Lynn Carter: The Activist and Private Citizen
Amy Carter is arguably the most famous of the children, having spent her childhood in the White House. She was known for her political activism, participating in sit-ins and protests against apartheid and CIA recruitment while she was a student.
Today, Amy Lynn Carter lives in the Atlanta area with her husband, John Joseph “Jay” Kelly. She has two sons, Hugo Wentzel and Errol Kelly. Her life is focused on her family and her continued, though less public, involvement in activism and education. She serves on the board of counselors for The Carter Center, providing valuable input on its direction.
The Next Generation: Jimmy Carter’s Grandchildren Continuing the Legacy
The true measure of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's legacy can be seen in their 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, many of whom are actively involved in public service and The Carter Center.
The most prominent figure of the third generation is Jason Carter, the son of Jack Carter. Jason is a former Georgia State Senator and currently serves as the influential chairman of The Carter Center's board of trustees. His leadership role ensures the organization's mission of advancing human rights and alleviating suffering globally will continue for decades to come, providing a direct link between the founders and the future.
Another key figure is James Carter IV, Chip Carter's son, who has also continued the family's legacy. Furthermore, Amy Carter's son, Hugo Wentzel, has stepped into the public sphere to speak about his grandfather’s profound influence. His public reflections offer a personal, generational perspective on the values of humility, service, and global citizenship that defined the former President.
This generational commitment to the family’s mission, particularly through The Carter Center, demonstrates an extraordinary dedication to public service that transcends political party lines. The Carter family, through its children and grandchildren, ensures that the work started in Plains, Georgia, will continue to impact the world for good.
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