Farewell to Jimmy Carter: A Celebration of Service and Humility
WASHINGTON — A poignant tribute was held on Thursday at Washington National Cathedral to honor the life and contributions of Jimmy Carter, reflecting on his exceptional humility and extensive public service throughout his presidency and beyond. The ceremony featured a blend of solemn respect and moments of celebration that would likely have been received modestly by the 39th president himself.
All living former presidents attended the service, and President Joe Biden, who was the first sitting senator to endorse Carter’s presidential campaign in 1976, delivered a heartfelt eulogy. Biden and other speakers took the opportunity to highlight Carter’s legacy and character, recognizing how historians have tended to view his presidency more favorably in recent years following his loss to Ronald Reagan in 1980.
Joshua Carter, one of his grandsons, spoke affectionately of his grandfather’s commitment to helping others, mentioning the houses he built for those in need and the elimination of diseases in under-resourced regions. He shared personal memories of Carter teaching Sunday school in Plains, Georgia, his hometown, underscoring a life dedicated to service. “He loved people,” Joshua remarked, reflecting on Carter’s loving spirit.
Another grandson, Jason Carter, shared anecdotes about his grandparents, including their humble habits, like reusing Ziploc bags, and fondly remembered their deep commitment to their roots. “They were small-town people who never forgot who they were,” he said, pointing to the work of the Carter Center, a humanitarian organization they established after leaving public office.
The gathering served as a rare moment of unity amid a politically divided nation, bringing together leaders with divergent views. Former President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump, who have previously exchanged barbed remarks, were seen conversing amiably, radiating a sense of camaraderie for the occasion.
Throughout the service, political undertones lingered. Biden emphasized the value of character, a trait he attributed to Carter, and echoed his beliefs on treating all individuals with dignity. “We have an obligation to give hate no safe harbor,” he stated, making implicit references to the current political climate that carries echoes of divisions and conflicts.
Jimmy Carter passed away on December 29 at the age of 100, having influenced many during his century-long life. During the service, eulogies from two notable figures—his vice president Walter Mondale and former president Gerald Ford—were shared, despite their passing before Carter. Ford’s son, Steven, read his father’s tribute, which acknowledged the competitive relationship that blossomed into a deep friendship.
The day’s ceremonies commenced with military honor guards transporting Carter’s casket, draped in the American flag, from the U.S. Capitol, accompanied by a 21-gun salute. As attendees gathered at the cathedral, a hymn titled “Be Still My Soul” was sung, marking an emotional start to the proceedings.
Among those who spoke was Andrew Young, a close friend and former U.N. ambassador during Carter’s administration. Young commemorated their bond, bridging the divide between races during the era of Jim Crow in Georgia. “Jimmy Carter was a blessing that helped create a great United States of America,” he remembered fondly.
After a day that included formal tributes and reflections from various leaders and citizens alike, Carter’s body was set to be transported back to Georgia, where he would be laid to rest alongside his wife Rosalynn, who passed away earlier in 2023. A private service will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church, where Carter famously taught Sunday school for many years.
Carter’s political legacy includes significant legislative achievements, such as energy and transportation reforms, along with notable peace negotiations, like that between Israel and Egypt. However, he also faced considerable challenges like inflation and the Iran hostage crisis, which were significant factors in his 1980 election loss. Former aide Stu Eizenstat remarked during his eulogy that while Carter may not be a candidate for Mount Rushmore, his contributions remain impactful and deserving of recognition.
As the nation mourns and reflects on the life of Jimmy Carter, his principles of decency, empathy, and commitment to public service will resonate through the hearts of many, reminding us of the importance of character in leadership.
