Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away last month at the age of 100, was honored in a state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral on Thursday, followed by a private burial service in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. The services were attended by living presidents, dignitaries, family members, and admirers, reflecting Carter’s lasting legacy of compassion, leadership, and humility.
A Timeline of the Memorial Events
Washington, D.C.
The state funeral began at the National Cathedral, a historic venue for honoring presidents and other leaders.
- 10:14 a.m.: Military officers carried Carter’s casket into the cathedral, marking the official start of the service.
- 11:30 a.m.: President Joe Biden delivered a eulogy emphasizing Carter’s enduring attribute: “character, character, character.”
- 11:50 a.m.: Civil rights leader Andrew Young celebrated Carter’s diverse personality and achievements, recalling their shared commitment to justice.
- 12:15 p.m.: The service concluded with prayers led by Rev. Tony Lowden, Carter’s personal pastor, and Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde.
Arrival in Plains, Georgia
- 3:30 p.m.: Carter’s casket arrived at Lawson Army Airfield in Georgia before being transported to Plains via motorcade.
- 5 p.m.: A private funeral service was held at Maranatha Baptist Church, where Carter once taught Sunday school.
Private Burial in Plains, Georgia
At 7:35 p.m., Carter’s family gathered for a private burial service outside his modest home, where he was laid to rest alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in 2023. The ceremony included:
- Family reflections by Jason Carter, Carter’s grandson.
- A 21-gun salute, honoring Carter’s Navy service and presidential legacy.
- A benediction by Rev. Tony Lowden, highlighting Carter’s faith and lifelong commitment to helping those in need.
Living Presidents Pay Tribute
All living U.S. presidents attended the state funeral, including:
- Donald Trump and Barack Obama, seen engaging in conversation during the service.
- George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, accompanied by their wives.
Notably, former First Lady Michelle Obama was absent due to a scheduling conflict, but sent her condolences to the Carter family.
Carter’s Enduring Legacy
Carter’s life exemplified service, from his presidency to his humanitarian work with the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. As his grandson Joshua Carter noted, “My grandfather spent his life helping those in need… He waged peace wherever he saw a chance.”
Plains, Georgia: Carter’s Final Resting Place
Carter chose Plains for his burial to honor his small-town roots and support the community he loved. Plains now serves as a living tribute to Carter, attracting visitors to landmarks like his former home and Maranatha Baptist Church.
A National Day of Mourning
President Biden declared Thursday a national day of mourning, with flags flown at half-staff across the country to honor Carter’s memory.
Speakers Reflect on Carter’s Impact
Speakers at the funeral celebrated Carter’s legacy, including:
- Steven Ford, son of Gerald Ford, sharing how Carter’s honesty transcended politics.
- Ted Mondale, son of Walter Mondale, highlighting Carter’s foresight and dedication to justice.
Key Questions About Carter’s Funeral
Where is Jimmy Carter’s funeral being held?
The state funeral was held at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., with a private burial in Plains, Georgia.
Who attended Carter’s funeral?
Five living presidents, family members, and dignitaries attended, along with Carter’s pastor Tony Lowden and civil rights leader Andrew Young.
Why wasn’t Michelle Obama at Carter’s funeral?
She was reportedly on an extended vacation in Hawaii but sent her condolences.
Closing Thoughts
Jimmy Carter’s life of humility, service, and compassion will inspire generations. As President Biden remarked, “We have an obligation to give hate no safe harbor and to stand up to the greatest sin of all: the abuse of power.” Carter’s legacy reminds us of the profound impact of character, service, and humanity.
