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Washington, D.C. — January 9, 2025
The United States today bid farewell to its 39th president, Jimmy Carter, a man remembered as much for his humility and humanitarian efforts as for his presidency. Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, was honored with a series of poignant ceremonies spanning Washington, D.C., and his beloved hometown of Plains, Georgia. President Joe Biden declared January 9 a national day of mourning, underscoring Carter’s profound impact on the nation.
Born James Earl Carter, Jr., the longest-living president in U.S. history leaves behind a legacy defined by public service, diplomatic leadership, and a lifelong commitment to global peace and justice.
A Day of Mourning in Washington
The day began solemnly at the U.S. Capitol, where Carter’s casket, draped in the American flag, had lain in state. A motorcade transported his remains to the Washington National Cathedral, where a national funeral service commenced at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Dignitaries, family members, and leaders from around the world filled the cathedral to pay their respects.
President Biden delivered an emotional eulogy, calling Carter a “president of the people” whose vision for a more compassionate and equitable world inspired generations. Reflecting on Carter’s post-presidency humanitarian work, Biden remarked, “He showed us that the presidency is a platform to uplift humanity, not just a position of power.”
Tributes also came from Steven Ford, representing the Ford family, and Ted Mondale, son of the late Vice President Walter Mondale, who highlighted Carter’s dedication to peace and the importance of integrity in leadership.
Journey to Georgia: A Return Home
Following the service, the Carter family boarded “Special Air Mission 39” at Joint Base Andrews, embarking on the final journey to Georgia. Upon arrival at Fort Moore, a motorcade carried Carter’s remains through the streets of Plains, where residents lined the route, many holding signs and photos celebrating the man they fondly called “Jimmy.”
At 3:30 p.m., a private funeral service was held at Maranatha Baptist Church, where Carter had taught Sunday school for decades. Attended by close family and friends, the service was a reflection of Carter’s deep faith and connection to the Plains community.
A Final Resting Place
The motorcade then proceeded to the Carter family residence, where a private burial ceremony took place. Marking this moment of farewell was a Navy “Missing Man” formation flyover, honoring Carter’s service as a naval officer. The interment ceremony was intimate, with the former president laid to rest in the soil of his cherished hometown.
A Legacy of Unity
Carter’s funeral drew a rare gathering of all five living U.S. presidents — Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton — underscoring the unity Carter always sought to foster. Foreign leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, also attended, highlighting Carter’s global influence.
Though his presidency spanned just one term from 1977 to 1981, Carter’s impact endured for decades through his work with The Carter Center, his advocacy for human rights, and his tireless efforts to combat disease and poverty.
A Nation Reflects
As the nation observes this day of mourning, Carter’s life serves as a reminder of the values of humility, perseverance, and service. From brokering the Camp David Accords to hammering nails for Habitat for Humanity, Carter leaves behind a legacy that transcends politics.
“He was not just a president but a servant of humanity,” said Reverend Joe Whittington, who spoke at the Plains service. “Jimmy Carter’s life was his message, and that message was love.”
Today, as flags fly at half-staff across the nation, Americans pause to honor a leader who embodied the ideals of compassion, humility, and tireless dedication to the common good. In life and in death, Jimmy Carter remains an enduring symbol of what is best in America.