In a rare moment of unity, all five living U.S. presidents gathered to honor the late Jimmy Carter at his state funeral. The emotional ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., as America’s leaders came together to pay their respects.
Obama and Trump together
In a surprising twist, former president Barack Obama and current president Donald Trump were spotted chatting and laughing just before the service. Their interaction caught many by surprise, given their long-standing rivalry. But in the somber atmosphere of the day, politics took a backseat to honoring the 39th U.S. president.
The life and legacy of Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 98. He died in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, after a year-long battle with illness in hospice care. His son confirmed the sad news, calling his father a hero.
Carter served as president from 1977 to 1981, and his time in office was marked by significant challenges. Though he lost the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan, Carter remained an influential figure in American politics, known for his dedication to humanitarian causes long after his presidency.
A historic gathering
On Thursday, five U.S. presidents—Barack Obama, Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden—came together for the funeral. It was a rare sight, with many viewers noting the presence of both former and current political opponents.
Barack Obama, who succeeded George W. Bush in office, was seen in deep conversation with Donald Trump. The two men, often at odds politically, shared a rare moment of camaraderie, exchanging smiles and words. Their interaction was a notable highlight as the leaders arrived at the service.
Also in attendance was Melania Trump, who made a rare public appearance alongside her husband. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was there too, adding to the list of prominent political figures who came to honor Carter’s legacy.
Joe Biden delivers eulogy
Joe Biden, who had a close relationship with Carter throughout his career, was chosen to deliver the eulogy. As the 46th president of the United States, Biden reflected on the impact Carter had on the nation and the world. Carter’s work on human rights, peace efforts, and global diplomacy was a key theme during the service.
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump: a first appearance together
In another surprising moment, Vice President Kamala Harris was seen at the funeral. This marked her first public appearance alongside Donald Trump since his victory in the 2024 election. Harris, who ran for president but lost to Trump, appeared alongside her husband, Doug Emhoff, as they made their way to the ceremony.
Air Force One to carry Carter’s remains home
After the state funeral in Washington, the family of Jimmy Carter was escorted back to Georgia aboard the Boeing 747, known as Air Force One when the president is aboard. The aircraft, a symbol of presidential power, will carry the late president’s body and his loved ones to Plains, where Carter spent most of his life.
A private ceremony in plains
Back in Plains, a private, invitation-only funeral will take place at Maranatha Baptist Church. Carter taught Sunday School there for decades after leaving the White House. This intimate ceremony in his hometown will be attended only by close family and friends, as they lay him to rest beside his wife, Rosalynn, at the plot they chose near the home they built in 1962.
A life of service and peace
Carter’s funeral marked the end of a remarkable life filled with service to others. From his presidency to his post-presidential humanitarian work, he never stopped working to make the world a better place. He leaves behind a legacy of peace, diplomacy, and compassion.
Final resting place
Carter will be buried next to his beloved wife, Rosalynn, in the peaceful surroundings of their family home. The plot is a symbol of the life they built together, starting before Carter’s first run for Georgia state Senate in 1962. After serving as governor of Georgia and president of the United States, Carter returned to his home state, where he and Rosalynn lived out their final years.
This somber event marked a moment in history, as America’s leaders came together to honor a man who served his country with dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. As the funeral came to a close, many reflected on Carter’s enduring legacy—one of peace, humility, and service.
The funeral may have been a final farewell, but Jimmy Carter’s legacy will live on for generations to come.
