Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, will receive a moving tribute this week. A ceremonial funeral will be held on Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral. Afterward, he will be laid to rest in his small hometown in Georgia. The ceremonies honor a man who always saw himself as an outsider, despite his time in the Oval Office.
A presidential farewell
President Joe Biden will deliver a heartfelt eulogy. Biden was the first sitting senator to endorse Carter’s 1976 presidential bid. The tribute comes just 11 days before Biden leaves office. All living former presidents are expected to attend. This includes President-elect Donald Trump, who paid his respects to Carter’s casket earlier this week. Such a gathering of former commanders in chief is extremely rare, symbolizing a moment of unity for the nation.
Tributes from around the world
Throughout the week, tributes have poured in. Political figures, business leaders, and citizens alike have celebrated Carter’s integrity and tireless work ethic. Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, praised Carter for setting a unique standard for presidents. Gates highlighted Carter’s commitment to tackling societal challenges, such as eradicating preventable diseases. “He showed how leadership can truly make a difference,” Gates said before heading to the funeral.
Civil rights leader Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., also paid tribute. She drew comparisons between her father and Carter, both Nobel Peace Prize laureates. “Both men showed what faith and love-driven leadership can achieve,” she remarked. King will join the Washington service to honor Carter’s legacy.
Ted Mondale, son of Carter’s vice president Walter Mondale, will also deliver a eulogy. He will read a speech written by his late father, who passed away in 2021. This heartfelt moment will add a deeply personal touch to the proceedings.
A week of remembrance
The Thursday events cap a week-long series of tributes. These began in Plains, Georgia, where Carter was born in 1924. Carter lived most of his life in this small town, which played a key role in shaping his identity. He passed away at the age of 100 on December 29. From Plains, the ceremonies moved to Atlanta and Washington. On Tuesday, Carter’s flag-draped casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda. Mourners waited in freezing temperatures to pay their respects, reflecting the deep admiration many felt for the former president.
Honoring a humanitarian legacy
Carter’s humanitarian legacy has been a major focus of the tributes. Although his presidency lasted only from 1977 to 1981, his post-presidential work earned him worldwide respect. As a former naval officer, engineer, and peanut farmer, Carter brought a unique perspective to his leadership. His efforts to promote peace, fight disease, and advocate for equality have left a lasting impact.
Final farewell in Georgia
Following the morning service in Washington, Carter’s remains will return to Georgia. A Boeing 747, often used as Air Force One, will transport his casket. Carter’s four children and extended family will accompany him on the journey. In the afternoon, a funeral will take place at Maranatha Baptist Church. This church held a special place in Carter’s heart. He taught Sunday School there for decades after his presidency. His casket will rest beneath a wooden cross he made in his own workshop, symbolizing his deep faith.
A life well lived
The final leg of the procession will pass through Carter’s beloved hometown. The route includes the historic train depot that served as the headquarters for his 1976 campaign. Carter will be laid to rest on family land, beside his late wife, Rosalynn Carter. Rosalynn passed away in 2023 after 77 years of marriage. Their love story and partnership remain an inspiration.
A legacy of leadership
Carter’s presidency came at a challenging time for America. The nation was grappling with the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Carter promised transparency and good governance, which resonated with a disillusioned public. During his time in office, he brokered a historic peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. However, economic challenges and foreign crises overshadowed his achievements. In 1980, he faced a significant electoral defeat to Ronald Reagan.
Despite this setback, Carter’s post-presidential years were marked by remarkable achievements. In 1982, he and Rosalynn founded The Carter Center in Atlanta. This non-governmental organization became a platform for their global humanitarian work. They tackled diseases, mediated conflicts, and oversaw elections. The center also advocated for racial and gender equality. Today, it employs around 3,000 people worldwide, continuing Carter’s mission to make the world a better place.
Jimmy Carter’s life is a testament to service, faith, and resilience. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched. As the nation gathers to say goodbye, his contributions will be remembered and celebrated.
