Editor’s note: Former President Jimmy Carter died Sunday at age 100 at his home in Plains, Ga. Here’s a look back at a Montgomery County resident who once served as one of his speechwriters. More recently, ABC7News spoke with Maddox after Carter’s death.
Robert Maddox, of Bethesda, worked as President Jimmy Carter’s speechwriter and special assistant for religious outreach during his presidency. As the 39th president celebrated his 99th birthday on Oct. 1, 2023, Maddox honored him in a presentation, sharing his fond memories of working with him.
Maddox shared the presentation with his fellow residents of Brightview Woodmont, an assisted living and memory care community in Bethesda.
Maddox said he first met Jimmy Carter in 1968 while Maddox served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Vienna, Georgia near Plains. On two occasions Jimmy Carter gave the sermon in Maddox’s church. A leading Christian layman, Mr. Carter preached in churches of all denominations throughout Georgia.
In an email statement, Maddox described that working in the Carter administration was “by far the most exciting and demanding job I ever had. As a friend of the Carters, I had the privilege of having some perks while working at the White House – such as private dinners with President Carter and [First Lady] Rosalynn, a trip to Camp David with the president, and others.”
Maddox said he has remained close with Carter, preaching at his church in Plains, Georgia numerous times. Maddox has also visited the Carter Center, “a nongovernmental organization that helps to improve lives by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy and preventing diseases,” according to its website.
Carter had been in hospice care since February and had been spending time at home with his family, according to the Carter Center.
Brightview Woodmont residents also sang happy birthday to Carter during the celebration.
