Memorial services for former US President Jimmy Carter began in Georgia, following his passing at the age of 100. On Saturday, Carter’s flag-draped casket made its way through his hometown of Plains, where residents gathered to honor him. After the procession, the casket reached Atlanta, where it will lie in state until Tuesday for public viewing.
Plains residents praised Carter’s humility and enduring connection to the community. “He lived as an ordinary man and never sought the limelight,” said William Brown, 71. Attendees waved flags and saluted as the motorcade passed. A poignant stop at Carter’s childhood peanut farm included the ringing of a bell 39 times in his honor as the 39th President.
Tributes in Atlanta and Washington
At a ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Carter’s grandson Jason shared heartfelt reflections on his grandfather’s legacy. “This week, we celebrate a life that was as impactful and fulfilling as any life could be,” Jason remarked. He noted, “It’s remarkable how much one can accomplish in a century.”
The public in Atlanta can pay their respects until Tuesday. Afterward, Carter’s casket will travel to Washington, D.C., to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda. On Thursday, a state funeral will take place at the National Cathedral, with President Joe Biden delivering the eulogy. Biden has declared Thursday a national day of mourning, and federal offices will close in Carter’s honor. All living former US Presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump—are expected to attend.
A Final Resting Place in Georgia
Following the state funeral, Carter’s casket will return to Georgia. He will be interred alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in 2023. Carter died peacefully on December 29, surrounded by family in his Plains home, just months after celebrating his 100th birthday.
Jimmy Carter served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, he dedicated his post-presidency to humanitarian work, leaving a lasting legacy of humility, peace, and service.
