King Charles pays tribute as he expresses ‘sadness’ over death news
Former US President Jimmy Carter died on December 29
Amidst the festive celebrations at Sandringham, King Charles paused his Christmas break to release a heartfelt tribute following news of the death of former US President Jimmy Carter at the age of 100.
The king was seen earlier in the day attending church with his sister, Princess Anne, her husband Sir Timothy Laurence, and other close family members.
He took to social media to issue a poignant statement on Sunday evening (December 29).
King Charles pays tribute to Jimmy Carter
The statement was posted to the royal family’s Instagram and X pages.
“It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of President Carter. He was a committed public servant and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights,” the king began.
“His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977.
“My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter’s family and the American people at this time.”
Royal family spend Christmas at Sandringham
King Charles’ tribute followed a traditional Christmas celebration at the Sandringham Estate.
The monarch was surrounded by close family members for the annual holiday church service at St Mary Magdalene Church.
The king was joined by Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, as well as his siblings, Prince Edward and Princess Anne, and their respective families.
However, some notable absences were observed this year.
Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York, spent Christmas at Royal Lodge in Windsor. Meanwhile, Princess Eugenie, her husband Jack Brooksbank, and their two sons celebrated with Jack’s family for the first time.
Across the Atlantic, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, remained at their Montecito home in California.
The couple chose to celebrate the festive season privately.
During his Christmas Day speech, King Charles touched on the health challenges faced by both the Princess of Wales and himself in 2024.
He said: “I am deeply grateful to the selfless doctors and nurses who supported us, and other members of my family, through the uncertainties and anxieties of illness. They have helped provide the strength, care, and comfort we have needed.”
The king also acknowledged the encouragement and sympathy received from supporters.
Duchess of Edinburgh is King Charles’ ‘secret weapon’
Elsewhere recently, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, has been dubbed Charles’ “secret weapon” within the royal family.
The 59-year-old is married to Prince Edward – the king’s youngest brother.
However, she has taken on increased responsibilities since Charles ascended the throne in 2022.
Royal expert Katie Nicholl praised Sophie’s role.
“She’s a vital cog in the royal machine,” she told OK!. “People see her as a ‘safe pair of hands,’ especially during pivotal moments.
“She was a key support during the late queen’s final years and has been an invaluable asset to King Charles, particularly during his cancer ordeal this year.”
“Like the Princess of Wales, Sophie spent years waiting in the wings, quietly working behind the scenes,” royal commentator Ingrid Seward also noted. “It’s taken time for people to realise just how much she contributes.”
Read more: King Charles’ cancer treatment to ‘continue into 2025’ as it’s ‘moving in a positive direction’
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