Plains visitors, business owners, and residents react to Carter’s passing

PLAINS, Ga. – Throughout the day, people from all over whether they’re historical sightseers, or Sumter county residents have come to Plains to honor our country’s 39th President.

And… regardless of if they knew him personally or not, they came to Plains to thank the former commander-in-chief.

For people like Phil Kurland, who runs the Plains Trading Post, and personally knew Jimmy Carter, today feels bittersweet.

“Initially, I was stunned, slow down and depressed. But, now I’ve decided that I’m going to be upbeat and celebrate his life and celebrate all the good things that he’s done around the world,” said Phil Kurland, owner, Plains Trading Post.

And… there have been plenty of people who came from far and wide to pay their respects to the 39th President, a day after his passing.

“I feel like he left a huge footprint on like, you know, Plains and like the Americus area,” said Garrett Love, Americus.

But… one part of Jimmy Carter will live on…

“Definitely his service to the community and that he was a humanitarian. I think that it was a really big part of what he was about,” said Gracie Vanson, Las Vegas.

While former President Carter’s passing may be disheartening, the people of Plains are seeing the silver lining.

“President and Mrs. Carter will always be alive in Plains. The mood is subdued but upbeat. We want to celebrate his life,” said Kurland.

And… while Jimmy Carter may be gone, many are taking solace in the fact that he’s at peace.

President Carter’s funeral will be held on Thursday, January 9th.

Brian Roche reporting.

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