Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, on December 29 at the age of 100, will be honored with a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral on January 9, 2025. This event will mark the culmination of several days of remembrance honoring the 39th president of the United States, who was known for his commitment to humanitarian efforts, civil rights, and peace.
President Joe Biden announced the arrangements, underscoring Carter's legacy as a man of moral clarity and compassion. Biden, who has had a long-standing relationship with Carter spanning over 50 years, intends to deliver the eulogy. He previously stated, "Carter asked me to do his eulogy," highlighting the personal bond they shared since Biden's early endorsement of Carter during his presidential campaign.
The January 9 service has also been declared a National Day of Mourning, with flags to be flown at half-staff over all government buildings for 30 days following Carter's death. The state funeral will be preceded by events allowing the public to pay their respects. Carter’s body will lie in repose at the Carter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 6 and 7, 2025. Afterward, it will be transported to Washington, D.C., where it will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda for 24 hours.
Washington National Cathedral, site of numerous presidential funerals, provides the fitting backdrop for Carter’s final public service. Past funerals at the cathedral include those for former presidents Dwight Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush. Following the funeral, Carter will be returned to Georgia for burial alongside his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away at the age of 96 just months prior.
The arrangements for Carter’s funeral reflect his desire for simplicity and connection to his roots. He had expressed his wish to be buried near his family home, stating, "Plains is where our hearts have always been." This desire will be honored at the private interment at his family plot after the public ceremonies.
Biden spoke affectionately about Carter's remarkable life, noting his commitment to various humanitarian causes and his moral compass. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us," Biden remarked. This sentiment echoes the feelings shared by many who knew and admired Carter, including world leaders and various citizens around the globe.
Numerous tributes have poured in from familiar faces, including international leaders who recognized Carter’s contributions to peace and democracy worldwide. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez praised him as "a statesman of great vision," and Pope Francis extended heartfelt condolences, highlighting Carter's lifelong commitment to human rights.
Carter’s commitment went beyond his presidency; he remained active as a humanitarian and led the charge for democratic ideals long after leaving the White House. His post-presidency work, including volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, showcased his dedication to aiding those most in need. After his initial recovery from cancer, Carter continued his efforts up until his final days, demonstrating resilience and hope.
This state funeral marks the first presidential funeral since George H.W. Bush's death in 2018 and is set against the backdrop of political transitions, with Biden commenting on the solemnity of the occasion as he reflects on Carter’s life. The planning for Carter’s funeral involved outlining detailed protocols, similar to other state funerals, with specific honors being paid during the services.
A motorcade will lead Carter’s casket from the Capitol to the Washington National Cathedral, ensuring proper military honors are rendered throughout the process. Military personnel will play significant roles, with the U.S. Army Military District of Washington tasked with overseeing the ceremonies.
Overall, the preparations for Carter's state funeral reflect both his humble character and the impact he made through his dedicated life. Many will gather to pay their respects to this enduring figure whose influence on American life and global humanitarian efforts will not be forgotten. His passing signifies the end of an era not only for those who shared time with him but also for the countless lives he touched through action and words.
Even as the nation mourns, Carter leaves behind a legacy characterized by hope, compassion, and unyielding dedication to serving others. His final resting place will be as cherished as his contributions to the fabric of American history. The state funeral promises to encapsulate not just the sorrow of his loss but the celebration of a life well-lived.