President Joe Biden has declared January 9, 2025, as a National Day of Mourning to honor former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. The day will be marked by significant closures and memorials across the nation, reflecting on the impact Carter had during his presidency and beyond.
On this day, federal offices and agencies will be closed according to Biden's executive order, which allows heads of departments and agencies the discretion to keep certain roles open if necessary for national security or public needs. Most federal employees will receive paid leave for the day, and specific guidelines will be followed for those required to work.
Local jurisdictions are also following suit. For example, Riley County offices will be closed on January 9, and their scheduled commission meeting for the same day has been canceled. Essential services, such as emergency medical and fire services, will remain operational, along with the Riley County District Court, which will accommodate previously scheduled jury trials during this period.
The USPS is also suspending regular mail deliveries and retail services on January 9, ensuring all postal facilities, including administrative offices, observe the day of mourning. While limited package delivery services may continue, the regular operations of the Postal Service will resume on January 10, 2025.
Further emphasizing Carter's legacy, there will be public ceremonies and memorials held both locally and nationally. Carter will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda from the afternoon of January 7 until the morning of January 9, allowing the public to pay their respects. Biden has called on Americans to gather at places of worship to honor Carter’s memory. "I call on the American people to assemble on this day to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr.," stated Biden.
Historical ceremonies, including significant military honors, will take place both in Georgia, where Carter spent much of his life, and Washington, D.C. The National Cathedral is expected to host the main funeral service. The designation of half-staff flags during the mourning period stresses the communal grief felt across the nation.
Carter's funeral will be the first for any former president since George H.W. Bush's passing in 2018. Previous presidents, including Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump, have expressed intentions to attend, with Trump noting, "I'll be there. We were invited members." This gathering of former office holders highlights Carter’s lasting influence and respect within the political community.
On January 9, 2025, various local newspapers, such as The Rappahannock Record and the Oconee Enterprise, have announced they will adapt their publication schedules to accommodate the day of mourning. The Rappahannock Record, for example, will publish its upcoming issue on January 8, one day earlier than usual, due to the postal service closures.
The emotional weight of Carter's passing resonates deeply among supporters and global leaders alike. Commemorations across the world reflect on the significant contributions he made not only as President but also as humanitarian and advocate for peace throughout his life.
Overall, the National Day of Mourning will serve as both remembrance and reflection, with many recognizing the deep-seated changes prompted during Carter’s presidency. Plans are being finalized as communities prepare to honor Jimmy Carter’s remarkable life and legacy.