The United States is preparing to honor the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter with a state funeral scheduled for January 9, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This solemn occasion will coincide with a national day of mourning, as announced by President Joe Biden on Sunday. President Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy for the late president, reflecting on Jimmy Carter’s remarkable contributions to the nation and the world. In recognition of this national mourning, federal offices will be closed on January 9, as a mark of respect. The Supreme Court also announced its closure for the day.
Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100, was a deeply respected figure in both American and global politics. His presidency, which spanned from 1977 to 1981, was marked by efforts to promote peace, human rights, and global humanitarianism. Jimmy Carter’s passing marks the end of an era, and the nation is set to pay its respects to a leader who devoted much of his life to the service of others.
The ceremonies in honor of President Jimmy Carter will begin on January 4, with a brief pause at his childhood home and the family farm in Plains, Georgia, where he spent his early years. The journey will also include a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence. From there, Jimmy Carter’s remains will be transported to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, where they will lie in repose until January 7. This will give mourners an opportunity to pay their respects before the procession heads to Washington, D.C.
Upon arrival in the capital, Jimmy Carter’s body will be taken to the U.S. Capitol, where members of Congress will pay tribute during an afternoon service on January 7. For two days, January 7 and 8, Jimmy Carter will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda, offering the public a chance to honor his service to the nation. On January 9, a state funeral will be held at the National Cathedral at 10 a.m.
In a letter issued Monday, Congressional leaders from both parties informed Jimmy Carter’s son, James Carter III, and the Carter Center of their intent to have the late president lie in state at the Capitol. The leaders praised Jimmy Carter’s long and distinguished service to the nation and expressed their desire to allow the American people to pay their respects before his final interment.
The funeral will be a significant moment for the nation, as Jimmy Carter’s legacy includes not only his work in the White House but also his lifelong dedication to humanitarian causes. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts to promote human rights and resolve global conflicts. Through the Jimmy Carter Center, which he established in 1982 with his wife Rosalynn, Carter spent decades working in developing countries to restore human rights, strengthen democratic institutions, and promote peace.
On Sunday, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their condolences, praising Jimmy Carter as an extraordinary leader and humanitarian. In a statement released by the White House, they noted that Jimmy Carter’s legacy is defined by his compassion and moral clarity, as he worked to eradicate disease, promote civil rights, advance free elections, and advocate for the most vulnerable people across the world.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India also extended his condolences, remembering Jimmy Carter as a “statesman of great vision” who worked tirelessly for global peace and harmony. Modi specifically highlighted Jimmy Carter’s contributions to strengthening the relationship between India and the United States. Carter visited India in 1978 during his presidency, where he met with Indian leaders and addressed the Indian Parliament.
Jimmy Carter’s son, James E. Carter III, confirmed his father’s passing but did not immediately provide details on the cause of death. According to the Jimmy Carter Center, Carter had been in hospice care following a series of hospital stays. He had chosen to stop further medical treatments and spend his remaining time at home, surrounded by family.
As the nation prepares to bid farewell to Jimmy Carter, his legacy as a peacemaker, advocate for human rights, and a champion of democracy will continue to inspire generations to come.
