On October 1st, former President Jimmy Carter crossed an impressive milestone that only a few achieve – turning 100 years old.

Around the country, stars, politicians, and Americans took a moment to celebrate Carter and the legacy he helped build with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. And wanting to honor Carter on his birthday, country stars Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks decided to get to work. The country couple also took a moment to honor the life and legacy of late singer Kris Kristofferson.

While countless people decided to celebrate Carter by posting a heartfelt message online, Yearwood and Brooks took it a step further when they helped build homes. Taking part in the 2024 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Week Project, the couple took time to help build nearly 30 homes. And that it just the start as the project looked to build 1,200 homes for struggling families.

Continuing the legacy that Carter created, Yearwood explained how even Rosalynn wasn’t too far away. “There was an eagle that flew over the site yesterday for the opening ceremonies, and we all thought ‘That’s Ms. Rosalynn putting her blessing on this place.’”

Although Carter remains in hospice care, the former President continues to make sure the job is getting done. “He definitely wants to know that we’re working and this is why we’re here. He has a legacy of service and he never stopped serving. He’s not physically standing here building, swinging a hammer, but we feel his presence and Ms. Rosalynn’s presence strongly. We’re just two volunteers, but everybody who’s on this site feels that responsibility to make them proud.”

Trisha Yearwood Remembers Kris Kristofferson

As for Kristofferson, Yearwood spoke with Taste of Country about her friendship with the late singer and how she once performed with him. She recalled taking part in a tribute show for Johnny Cash. Traveling to New York, she took the stage to perform “Sunday Morning Coming Down” with none other than Kristofferson. “Just to get to sing with him was … I grew up on his music and he’s a hero.” She continued her thoughts, insisting, “This one hurt. This is a tough one. This is a legend that was lost.”

Besides talking about his legacy, Yearwood posted a picture of herself with Kristofferson, writing, “This one hurts. The word legend gets tossed around a lot but with Kristofferson the shoe fits. These are shoes that won’t be filled. Rest easy.“