Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, was honored with a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral on Thursday, marking the conclusion of six days of tributes following his passing at the age of 100. The event saw all five living former presidents—including President Joe Biden, who delivered the eulogy—gather to celebrate Carter's remarkable life as both a political leader and humanitarian.
With dignity ringing throughout the somber yet celebratory service, President Biden began by emphasizing the character of Carter, whose life was steeped deeply in faith and commitment to public service. “Jimmy Carter did justly, loved mercy, and walked humbly,” Biden said, going on to describe Carter’s commitment to equality and justice as foundational to the nation itself. “It’s about treating everyone with dignity and respect,” he continued, highlighting the former president’s belief embedded within his Christian faith.
President Biden positioned Carter not just as a figure from the past but as someone who foresaw the challenges of the future: “Many think he was from a bygone era, but he saw well onto the future.” This was echoed by Carter’s grandson Jason Carter, who celebrated him as someone who consistently advocated for righteousness, even when it was politically unpopular.
The service included musical performances, such as rendition of “Amazing Grace” by Phyllis Adams and “Imagine” by country stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, who shared personal connections with the Carters through their past work with Habitat for Humanity. Their music filled the cathedral, intertwining Carter’s love of faith with his family and social engagements.
Carter’s enduring contributions as both governor of Georgia and president were described vividly by those close to him. Members of his family spoke of his devotion to not only public service but also his faith, recounting stories of how he taught Sunday school well beyond his years of political office. His grandson, Joshua Carter, recalled poignant moments of teaching scripture to followers at Maranatha Baptist Church, reiteratively stressing how Carter viewed his life as one characterized by genuine love for others—a theme echoed frequently throughout the day.
Notably, all living former presidents were present at the funeral, marking this rare occasion where former political rivals came together to honor one of their own, emphasizing the bipartisan respect Jimmy Carter commanded even after leaving office. President Biden, Hillary Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and President-elect Donald Trump were all present, sharing the forefront as attendees of the event. Michelle Obama was absent from the ceremony, reportedly due to previously scheduled engagements.
During his tribute, Biden underlined the nature of Carter’s legacy, which many have argued is often overlooked. He encapsulated it tersely: “His life was about faith and service.” Biden tied Carter’s character to the virtues of humility—a sentiment mirrored by Ted Mondale, son of Carter’s late vice president Walter Mondale, who shared touching insights about their time together and noted Carter’s unyielding commitment to truth and legality through the years.
Steve Ford, son of former President Gerald Ford, stood at the podium to deliver words crafted posthumously by his father. This eulogy manifested the deep friendship forged between the two historical figures, highlighting moments of mutual respect and admiration. This friendship blossomed during their post-presidency years, showcasing the character alignment shared between the two leaders.
The funeral service drew to a poignant close with Carter's casket, draped neatly with the American flag, escorted from the cathedral as attendees rose to pay their final respects. The service culminated after roughly two hours, filled with laughter, reflection, and deep admiration for Carter’s drive for peace and justice.
Following the funeral service, Carter’s remains were taken back to his Georgia roots for interment next to his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who passed away just over a year prior. This personal connection held great significance for the family and symbolizes their unwavering bond—a lasting tribute to their 77 years of marriage.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers accentuated Carter's legacy not just as president but also as one of the key pillars of modern American humanitarian efforts. His endeavors with Habitat for Humanity, commitment to civil rights, and global diplomacy marked him as truly unique among his predecessors, often securing his status as “America’s greatest ex-president.” Each eulogy reaffirmed the sentiment shared nationally: Jimmy Carter’s heart of service transformed not only American policy, but also the lives of countless individuals around the world.
Also discussed was Carter’s post-presidential work, which included notable efforts for human rights and humanitarian endeavors through the Carter Center. The highlight was certainly his Nobel Peace Prize awarded for his commitment to justice, democracy, and support for global goodness.
The funeral setup itself echoed Carter’s personal touches communicated over years of planning alongside Rosalynn, right down to the carefully curated selection of music, guest lists, and even the format of the eulogies. It marked not only the end of his life but also the culmination of efforts aimed at fostering unity—a sentiment championed by Carter throughout his lifetime. His legacy as global peacemaker illuminates his life as one lived with passion, purpose, and unwavering faith.
Carter’s life intertwined with the narrative of American history, particularly surrounding pivotal moments of civil rights and peace efforts, led attendees at Thursday’s service to reflect deeply on a life well-lived. The tributes from family, friends, and political contemporaries alike served not just to honor his legacy but to encourage all to pursue humanity, justice, and love, ideals at the core of both his presidency and personal mission.
By concluding the service with the flight of Carter’s remains back to Plains, Georgia, attendees left the National Cathedral filled with hope, reflecting honorably on Carter’s story—a life summation characterized by faith, service, and boundless love for humanity.
Jimmy Carter leaves behind not only memories cherished by those who knew him but also principles for future generations to uphold—his life will forever be remembered as one defined by work toward lasting peace and unconditional love for all people.