Americans remember former President Carter’s ‘lifelong legacy’ outside National Cathedral memorial

Former President Jimmy Carter will be remembered for his kind spirit, faith, and humanitarian efforts, according to viewers standing outside his funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Carter, who passed away on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, was the only American president to reach the century mark. Multiple memorials have been held for the 39th president in both D.C. and Georgia since his passing.

During a memorial service at the Washington National Cathedral on Thursday, Fox News Digital spoke to people gathered outside the funeral about Carter’s lasting legacy. One woman shared a heartwarming memory of meeting Carter when she was just 7 years old, which ignited her lifelong love for politics. She recalled, “My mom was a delegate to the ’76 convention representing Arkansas. And he came to Arkansas to campaign, and I met him. And I just remember him being very sweet.”

Reflecting on Carter’s legacy, another individual highlighted his short political career of only 8 to 10 years but emphasized his lifelong dedication to humanitarian efforts and helping others. “I want to have a life that kind of reflects the life that he lived, really just supporting people and being there for them and making sure that everyone felt a part and no one was other,” they said.

President Biden declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning, allowing many Americans to have the day off work. Viewers outside the memorial shared their reasons for paying their respects, with one individual expressing admiration for Carter’s work with the homeless and house building. Another younger D.C. resident, who did not experience Carter’s presidency, acknowledged his post-presidency work with Habitat for Humanity as meaningful and impactful.

Following the D.C. memorial, Carter will be laid to rest in his home state of Georgia beside his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. Thursday’s funeral service in D.C. was attended by President Biden, President-elect Trump, and former Presidents Obama and Clinton, marking the first time all living presidents have come together since former President H.W. Bush’s funeral in 2018.

The legacy of Jimmy Carter will be forever remembered for his compassion, faith, and dedication to serving others. As the nation mourns the loss of a beloved leader, his legacy of humanitarian efforts and kindness will continue to inspire generations to come.