Amy Carter: Her Husbands, Life & Family Today!

09 May, 2025

Is it true that former First Daughter Amy Carter's life has been a whirlwind of public scrutiny and personal evolution? Absolutely, and at the heart of her journey are the men who've shaped her path, from her first husband, James Gregory Wentzel, to her current partner, John Joseph "Jay" Kelly.

Amy Carter, the only daughter of former US President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter, has navigated a life in the public eye since her childhood in the White House. Her personal life, including her marriages, has been a subject of interest. In 1996, Amy Carter married James Gregory Wentzel, a computer consultant. Their union, though significant, eventually ended in divorce in 2005. Subsequently, Amy found love again and married John Joseph "Jay" Kelly in 2007. Their relationship has brought a different kind of attention, particularly concerning Jay Kelly's health and mobility.

Category	Information
Full Name	James Gregory Wentzel
Birth Date	September 2, 1969 (approximately 55 years old as of 2025)
Birth Place	Fulton County, Georgia, United States
Nationality	American
Occupation	Computer Consultant, Senior Director of Digital Games at Andrews McMeel Universal
Marital Status	Divorced from Amy Carter (married 1996, divorced 2005)
Children	Hugo James Wentzel (with Amy Carter)
Education	Unknown
Known For	Being the first husband of Amy Carter, daughter of President Jimmy Carter
Additional Notes	Keeps a low profile, unlike Amy's second husband.
Reference Link	Andrews McMeel Universal

The question of whether Jay Kelly is in a wheelchair has surfaced on several occasions. There have been instances, such as ceremonies at the U.S. where Amy was seen pushing Kelly in a wheelchair. However, it's worth noting that during the memorial services for Rosalynn Carter in late 2023, Jay Kelly was not observed in a wheelchair. This inconsistency raises questions about his long-term health condition and whether the wheelchair use is situational or permanent. The Carters have always been a family that values privacy, and details about Jay Kelly's health have not been publicly disclosed, which adds to the speculation.

Amy Carter's life story is interwoven with that of her family. Born on October 19, 1967, in Plains, Georgia, she is the youngest of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's four children. Her brothers are John William "Jack" Carter, James Earl "Chip" Carter, and Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter. Amy's early life was significantly shaped by her father's political career, thrusting her into the national spotlight. She resided in the White House during her father's presidency, becoming a symbol of youthful innocence amidst political complexities. However, Amy is also known for her political activism. She has been involved in various causes and has used her platform to advocate for social and environmental issues. Her activism reflects a deep commitment to the values instilled by her parents, known for their humanitarian work and dedication to social justice.

Her first marriage to James Gregory Wentzel occurred in 1996. Wentzel, a computer consultant, has generally maintained a low profile, particularly compared to Amy's more public life. The couple met while Amy was working in an Atlanta bookstore managed by Wentzel. They welcomed a son, Hugo James Wentzel, in July 1999. Hugo has since entered the public sphere in his own right, appearing on the reality TV competition show "Claim to Fame" in 2023. Despite the initial happiness, the marriage eventually ended in 2005. From 1996 to 2005, their time together was a blend of private life and public attention, given Amy's family background.

Since 2007, Amy Carter has been married to John Joseph "Jay" Kelly. This union has brought her a different kind of fulfillment. While less is known about Jay Kelly's personal background, his presence in Amy's life has been a constant. The couple shares a child together. The details surrounding Jay Kelly's health have been a point of public curiosity. The instances of Amy pushing him in a wheelchair during public events have raised questions about his mobility and overall well-being. In contrast, his appearance without a wheelchair at Rosalynn Carter's memorial service in late 2023 suggests that his condition may be variable or that he uses the wheelchair for specific situations. Regardless of the specifics, Amy's support and care for her husband have been evident.

Amy Carter’s two marriages reflect different chapters in her life. Her marriage to James Gregory Wentzel was a union with a man who preferred a life out of the limelight, whereas her marriage to John Joseph "Jay" Kelly brought her companionship and the joys of family life, amidst the challenges that come with health issues. Her role as a wife and mother has been as important as her role as a public figure. Amy Carter's journey is a tapestry of personal experiences and public expectations. Born into a family with a strong legacy of public service, she has navigated her own path with grace and resilience. Her marriages, motherhood, and activism all contribute to her identity as a complex and multifaceted individual.

James Gregory Wentzel, born on September 2, 1969, is an American computer consultant. Currently, he holds the position of Senior Director of Digital Games at Andrews McMeel Universal. He has largely remained out of the public eye, unlike Amy Carter and her second husband, Jay Kelly. Wentzel's professional life as a computer consultant has been distinct from the political sphere, allowing him to maintain a level of privacy that is rare for someone connected to such a prominent family. James Wentzel is approximately 59 years old currently, though reports have also listed him as born in 1965, making him a few years younger than Amy Carter. His age reflects the passage of time since his marriage to Amy in 1996. His career at Andrews McMeel Universal reflects his expertise in the digital realm, underscoring his professional achievements.

The narrative of Amy Carter and Jay Kelly is one of love and resilience. Their journey together, marked by both joyous occasions and challenging circumstances, highlights the strength of their bond. Amy's unwavering support for Jay, whether he is using a wheelchair or not, is a testament to her commitment as a partner. The couple's presence at family events, such as the funeral services for President Jimmy Carter, underscores their role within the larger Carter family. Amy Carter's relationship with Jay Kelly reflects the enduring power of love and the capacity to navigate life's challenges together. It's a story that resonates with many, as it mirrors the complexities and triumphs of human connection.

Amy Carter's journey is a reminder that even those who grow up in the spotlight have personal lives marked by the same joys and challenges as everyone else. Her experiences reflect the universal themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of family. Whether it's her commitment to social causes, her dedication to her family, or her ability to navigate the complexities of life in the public eye, Amy Carter continues to inspire. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth and adaptation.

The enduring love between Amy Carter and her family was particularly evident during the funeral services for President Jimmy Carter. Amy played a significant role in honoring her father's legacy. She shared a heartfelt letter he wrote to her 75 years ago while serving as a submarine commander in the US Navy. Her participation in the memorial service underscored her deep connection to her father and the values he instilled in her. It was a moment of profound emotion, as the Carter family gathered to celebrate the life of a man who had touched so many lives. Amy Carter's involvement in the service was a reflection of her love for her father and her commitment to preserving his memory.

Amy Carter's life since leaving the White House has been marked by personal and professional pursuits. Now 57, she resides in the Atlanta area with her family. Her focus on family, activism, and personal growth reflects a life lived with purpose and intention. Amy Carter is known not only for her childhood in the White House but also for her unwavering commitment to social justice. Her contributions to various causes demonstrate her dedication to making a positive impact on the world. Amy Carter's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, love, and the enduring legacy of a family deeply committed to service.

Born Amy Lynn Carter in 1967, she has grown into a woman of substance, known for her activism and commitment to social causes. She reportedly met Wentzel while working in an Atlanta bookstore managed by him, which highlights their connection outside the political sphere. James Wentzel’s love and stability has given Amy Carter a wonderful second chapter to happily write, which illustrates the positive impact he had on her life. She completed her graduation from the Memphis College of Art and earned her master’s degree in 1996 at the age of 29. This academic pursuit demonstrates her commitment to personal and intellectual growth. She also married at the age of 29, marking a significant milestone in her life. Her father passed away at the age of 99, signifying the end of an era for the Carter family. James Wentzel is around 59 years old currently, which puts his birth year around 1965, making him three years younger than Amy Carter.

Amy Carter’s second marriage to John Joseph “Jay” Kelly in 2007 marked a new chapter in her life. This union brought her companionship and the joys of family life, amidst the challenges that come with health issues. Her role as a wife and mother has been as important as her role as a public figure, showing her dedication to her personal life. According to Distractify, what we do know is that Jay wasn’t in a wheelchair when he was seen at memorial services for Rosalynn Carter in late 2023, indicating his condition may not always require wheelchair use. Amy Carter was married to James Gregory Wentzel in 1996 and divorced in 2005, highlighting the different phases of her life and relationships. The Carters gathered to say farewell to the former first lady during services at the church she and her husband built, marking a poignant moment for the family and the nation. Hugo James Wentzel, their son, was featured on the second season of reality TV competition show Claim to Fame, indicating the family’s continued presence in the public eye. Amy Carter was born on October 19, 1967, in Plains, Georgia, prior to her birth, the family held a vote whether their parents should try for a baby daughter. This unique family story adds to the intrigue surrounding Amy Carter’s life.

Amy Carter focused on the enduring love between her and President Carter during the service, which was a touching tribute to their relationship. She is known for her political activism, advocating for various social and environmental issues, underscoring her commitment to making a difference. Born in 1967, Amy Lynn Carter is Jimmy and Rosalynn's youngest child, solidifying her place in the Carter family legacy. At the age of 28, she married computer consultant James Gregory Wentzel in 1997, marking the beginning of her first marriage. Amy Carter & Jay Kelly: A story of love & resilience discover the inspiring journey of Amy Carter, daughter of President Jimmy Carter, and her husband, Jay Kelly, which encapsulates the strength and challenges of their relationship. She shared a heartfelt letter he wrote to her 75 years ago while serving as a submarine commander in the US Navy, providing a glimpse into their close bond. Amy carter married james gregory wentzel, marking an important phase in her personal history. Husband John Joseph “Jay” Kelly and sons Hugo, completes her family, showcasing the importance of family in her life.

Family members of former President Jimmy Carter arrive at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center to escort his body from his hometown of Plains, Georgia, to Atlanta, marking a somber moment for the Carter family and the nation. She was born on 19th October 1967 in Plains, Georgia, the U.S., to Jimmy Carter, and Rosalynn Carter, establishing her roots in a close-knit community. With her golden locks and shy demeanor, the youngest Carter quickly, which highlights her public persona and early life. In addition to Amy, the former president and first lady also have three sons — John William “Jack” Carter, 76, James Earl “Chip” Carter, which illustrates the breadth of the Carter family. Amy was pushing Kelly in a wheelchair during ceremonies Tuesday at the U.S., which has sparked public interest in his health. The Carter children were among those seated in front at the funeral for President Jimmy Carter Thursday, including Carter's youngest child and only daughter Amy, who was a big part of her family's, emphasizing her role in the family. The former first lady was laid to rest, with her funeral taking place in the, marking a significant moment in history. Ultimately, he watched from the front row, seated in a wheelchair with his daughter Amy by his side, holding his hand throughout the service, highlighting their close bond and mutual support.

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