James "Jimmy" Earl Carter James Earl Carter was born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia. His father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a farmer. His mother, Lillian Gordy He later joined the Navy and accomplished the rank of senior grade lieutenant. When his father died he was "stationed" not too long after that back in Plains. During this time he became extremely interested and involved with his community. He eventually, in 1971 he became the 76th governor of Georgia. While in office, his fellow governors selected him to serve as a chairman of the Southern Regional Education Board, the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Co