ATLANTA — The six-day state funeral observances for former President Jimmy Carter began on January 4, 2025, following his passing on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. These solemn yet celebratory events reflect on Carter's remarkable life, melding his background from small-town Plains, Georgia, to his prominent role on the world stage as a humanitarian and advocate.
The funeral proceedings commenced at 10:15 AM ET, with poignant ceremonies taking place at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, Americus, Georgia. Early tributes honored Carter's deep roots and enduring contributions to both local and global communities. A motorcade carrying Carter's flag-draped casket wound through the streets of Plains, with former and current U.S. Secret Service agents serving as pallbearers. This small town, which has fewer than 700 residents, was Carter's lifelong home, embodying his connection with simpler beginnings.
Notably, the motorcade passed significant landmarks, such as the girlhood home of Rosalynn Carter, who passed away just months before him, and the gas station once run by his brother, Billy. The procession also recognized the Methodist church where Jimmy and Rosalynn married. This pilgrimage through Plains not only honored the late president but reflected the fabric of his life alongside his beloved wife.
After the route through Plains, the motorcade continued to Carter's family farm and boyhood home located just outside the town of Archery. The farm, now part of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, is remarkable not just for its historical significance but also because it showcases how far Carter has come. His humble beginnings during the Great Depression shaped his character and aspirations.
While at the farm, the National Park Service rang the old farm bell 39 times, commemorative of Carter's position as the 39th president. This touching tribute served as both a reminder of where he started and the incredible marks he left during and after his presidency. Throughout the day, Carter's family members were key figures, each sharing elements of their lives intertwined with his legacy.
Following the Plains observances, the procession made its way to Atlanta, where he laid to rest at the Georgia Capitol, symbolic of his service as state senator and governor. At 3 PM, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens led attendees in honoring Carter with a moment of silence, reaffirming the respect he commanded across political lines.
The motorcade arrived at the Carter Presidential Center at 3:45 PM for a private memorial service at 4 PM. From there, Carter will lie in repose from Saturday evening through Monday morning, giving the public around-the-clock opportunities to pay their respects. This public tribute is expected to draw thousands, including global staff from the Carter Center, which focuses on diplomacy and health initiatives worldwide.
Reflecting on his extraordinary life, James Earl Carter Jr. not only served as America's president but became a role model for humanitarian efforts around the globe. His grandson, Jason Carter, who chairs the board of the Carter Center, acknowledged the tremendous shadow of his grandfather's lifelong dedication to public service, continuing to inspire future generations.
What happens next for Carter's final ceremonies will see his remains transported to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda. A national funeral service on Thursday morning at Washington National Cathedral is set to feature all living former presidents, with President Joe Biden delivering the eulogy — cementing the ties and respect across decades of leadership. Following this, Carter will return to his hometown for the final burial at Maranatha Baptist Church, where he served as Sunday School teacher for many years.
Carter's family dynamics add another layer to the mourning and memorial aspect. Known for being the longest-married presidential couple, he and Rosalynn have had four children who are still alive, counting many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all gathered to honor his memory. According to Hugo James Wentzel, one of his grandchildren, "He still does use his brain" — reflecting on the intelligence and determination Carter demonstrated throughout his life.
Joshua Jeffrey Carter, another of his grandchildren, shared heartfelt sentiments as well, noting, "(Rosalynn Carter) still knows who we are, for the most part, and who we are to each other.” This familial bond reflects not just the legacies of presidencies but the traditions and love they have cultivated throughout their lives.
Jimmy Carter's six-day long memorial stands not just as closure but as a celebration of life, service, and family — values he embodied throughout his presidency and beyond. His homecoming for the last resting place are surrounded by the people he cared for the most, showcasing the man's heart as much as his achievements.
This remarkable final farewell showcases not just the inherent respect for his lifelong contributions to the nation but also the love and admiration held by those who knew and loved him best. The preparations reflect the intense national and international admiration for Carter, whose post-presidency endeavors shed light on how one man can continuously work toward peace, humanity, and community.
With so much to watch and honor, the state funeral for President Jimmy Carter will leave lasting memories — not just of his leadership but of the enduring human spirit to guide the world toward kindness and compassion through service.