Jimmy Carter’s funeral services begin with trek to childhood home, Atlanta

The week-long state funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 last week, commenced on Saturday morning. The ceremonies are a tribute to Carter’s remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Plains, Georgia, to his esteemed position on the global humanitarian stage and as the 39th President of the United States.

The day began with individuals gathering in downtown Plains to pay their respects to Carter by placing flowers at the base of his monument. The tribute also featured Habitat for Humanity hard hats adorned with heartfelt handwritten messages, symbolizing the impact Carter had on the community and beyond. One touching message read, “God bless you, Mr. President.”

The specific cause of Carter’s death on December 29 was not immediately disclosed. His passing came just weeks after the death of his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who passed away on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96. She was surrounded by her family at the Carter home in Plains, following her admission to hospice care.

As the oldest living president, Carter’s legacy will be honored through a series of funeral events. On Saturday, January 4, the Carter family arrived at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia, where nine current and former Secret Service agents served as pallbearers, escorting his remains to the hearse. The motorcade then traveled through Plains, pausing at Carter’s boyhood home in Archery as the National Park Service rang the historic farm bell 39 times, representing Carter’s tenure as the 39th President.

The journey then continued to Atlanta, with a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence led by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Lt. Governor Burt Jones, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and members of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia State Patrol troopers, both current and retired, gathered on the Capitol steps to pay their respects.

Upon arrival at the Carter Presidential Center, a private service was held in the lobby of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. President Carter’s remains will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center until Tuesday, January 7, allowing the public to pay their respects.

Subsequent services include the transportation of Carter’s remains to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol for national homage on January 7. A national funeral service will be held at the Washington National Cathedral on January 9, with President Joe Biden expected to deliver the eulogy.

Following the service in Washington, Carter’s remains will return to Georgia for a private funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. He will be laid to rest next to his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, at their residence.

The nation mourns the loss of a beloved leader and humanitarian. President Jimmy Carter’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.