A Nation Mourns: The State Funeral of Former President Jimmy Carter
Leaders from across the political spectrum pay their respects as America bids farewell to a storied statesman and humanitarian.
On January 9, 2025, the United States celebrated the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter with a state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.
President Joe Biden declared the day a national day of mourning in honor of the 39th President of the United States, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024.
The funeral was attended by all four living former presidents, including soon-to-be inaugurated President-Elect Donald Trump, highlighting the bipartisan respect that Carter commanded.
Several memorial services were held in the days leading up to the funeral, including at the U.S. Capitol, the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, and Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia.
Following the national ceremony, Carter’s remains were returned to Georgia for a private burial.
President Biden, a longtime friend and collaborator of Carter, delivered one of the principal eulogies.
He praised Carter's vision and enduring influence, stating, 'Today, many think he was of a past era,' but, 'in reality, he saw far into the future.' Biden's speech was a heartfelt tribute to a friendship that spanned nearly five decades.
Adding personal reflections to the official recognitions, Carter’s grandchildren, Josh and Jason Carter, shared moving eulogies.
Jason Carter spoke of his grandfather's unwavering marriage to former First Lady Rosalynn Carter and his lifelong commitment to public service and humanitarian efforts.
'In these last weeks, he told us he was ready to see her again,' Jason noted, offering comfort to those mourning the loss of both Rosalynn, who passed before him, and Jimmy Carter.
Under Biden’s administration, the Carter presidency was celebrated not just for his time in office but also for his humanitarian work post-presidency.
Carter’s focus on matters such as global health and housing through initiatives like the Carter Center set a standard for post-presidential conduct.
His efforts earned him admiration worldwide, a point Biden emphasized: 'What I find extraordinary about Jimmy Carter is that millions across the world felt they lost a friend, even if they never met him.'
The sizable attendance of influential figures, including opposition leaders, underscored Carter's unique role in American history as a unifying figure, one who often sought solutions beyond the divisive political fray.
Despite a presidency marked by significant challenges, Carter's post-presidential work notably enhanced his reputation, leading many to view his life as an expansive love story with an enduring commitment to humanity at its core.
As the nation remembers Carter, his life serves as a reminder of the impact of leadership grounded in compassion and service.
President Joe Biden declared the day a national day of mourning in honor of the 39th President of the United States, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024.
The funeral was attended by all four living former presidents, including soon-to-be inaugurated President-Elect Donald Trump, highlighting the bipartisan respect that Carter commanded.
Several memorial services were held in the days leading up to the funeral, including at the U.S. Capitol, the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, and Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia.
Following the national ceremony, Carter’s remains were returned to Georgia for a private burial.
President Biden, a longtime friend and collaborator of Carter, delivered one of the principal eulogies.
He praised Carter's vision and enduring influence, stating, 'Today, many think he was of a past era,' but, 'in reality, he saw far into the future.' Biden's speech was a heartfelt tribute to a friendship that spanned nearly five decades.
Adding personal reflections to the official recognitions, Carter’s grandchildren, Josh and Jason Carter, shared moving eulogies.
Jason Carter spoke of his grandfather's unwavering marriage to former First Lady Rosalynn Carter and his lifelong commitment to public service and humanitarian efforts.
'In these last weeks, he told us he was ready to see her again,' Jason noted, offering comfort to those mourning the loss of both Rosalynn, who passed before him, and Jimmy Carter.
Under Biden’s administration, the Carter presidency was celebrated not just for his time in office but also for his humanitarian work post-presidency.
Carter’s focus on matters such as global health and housing through initiatives like the Carter Center set a standard for post-presidential conduct.
His efforts earned him admiration worldwide, a point Biden emphasized: 'What I find extraordinary about Jimmy Carter is that millions across the world felt they lost a friend, even if they never met him.'
The sizable attendance of influential figures, including opposition leaders, underscored Carter's unique role in American history as a unifying figure, one who often sought solutions beyond the divisive political fray.
Despite a presidency marked by significant challenges, Carter's post-presidential work notably enhanced his reputation, leading many to view his life as an expansive love story with an enduring commitment to humanity at its core.
As the nation remembers Carter, his life serves as a reminder of the impact of leadership grounded in compassion and service.
