Jimmy Carter Honored with 6-Day State Funeral Ceremony Nationwide

Jan. 9, 2025, 3:27 pm ET

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  • Former President Jimmy Carter is being honored with a state funeral, marking the end of a six-day tribute.
  • The funeral includes ceremonies in Washington, D.C., and Plains, Georgia, reflecting his national and local impact.
  • Carter, the 39th U.S. President, died on Dec. 29 at 100, the longest-lived U.S. president in history.

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Essential Context

Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th President of the United States, is being remembered through a series of ceremonies that underscore his significant impact on American politics and humanitarian work. His state funeral, held on January 9, 2025, is a culmination of six days of tributes.

Core Players

  • Jimmy Carter – 39th President of the United States
  • Rosalynn Carter – Jimmy Carter’s wife of 77 years, who passed away in November 2023
  • The Carter Family – Inviting the public to honor and celebrate Jimmy Carter’s life
  • U.S. Military and Honor Guard – Participating in various ceremonial roles
  • Washington National Cathedral – Hosting the National Funeral Service

Key Numbers

  • 100 – Jimmy Carter’s age at the time of his death, making him the longest-lived U.S. president
  • 77 – Years of marriage between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter
  • 6 – Days of state funeral events honoring Jimmy Carter
  • 35 – Number of individuals who have lain in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, including Jimmy Carter

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The Catalyst

Jimmy Carter’s death on December 29, 2023, at the age of 100, triggered a national outpouring of respect and tributes. His legacy as a humanitarian, statesman, and the longest-lived U.S. president has inspired a comprehensive state funeral process.

Inside Forces

The state funeral involves multiple ceremonies, starting with Carter’s casket being moved from the U.S. Capitol, where he lay in state, to Washington National Cathedral for a national funeral service. This service, held at 10 a.m. on January 9, is not open to the general public due to security concerns but is available via livestream.

Following the service, Carter’s remains will be flown to Fort Moore, Georgia, and then transported to Plains, Georgia, for a private service and burial next to his wife, Rosalynn.

Power Dynamics

The funeral proceedings are a collaboration between the Carter Family, the U.S. Military, and various dignitaries. President Biden will deliver a eulogy at the National Funeral Service, while President-elect Donald Trump has announced his attendance.

The involvement of high-ranking officials and the meticulous planning of the ceremonies reflect the respect and admiration for Carter’s life and achievements.

Outside Impact

The state funeral has brought together Americans from all walks of life to pay their respects. The public has been invited to honor Carter along the motorcade routes in Washington, D.C., and Georgia.

Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia, will host a procession and a final private interment, allowing the community to bid their last respects to a man who was deeply connected to the town.

Future Forces

As the nation bids farewell to Jimmy Carter, his legacy continues to inspire. His commitment to humanitarian work, peace efforts, and public health initiatives will remain a guiding force in American politics and global affairs.

The meticulous planning and execution of his state funeral serve as a testament to the enduring impact of his life and service.

Data Points

  • Dec. 29, 2023: Jimmy Carter passes away at 100
  • Jan. 9, 2025: State funeral at Washington National Cathedral
  • Jan. 9, 2025: Private burial in Plains, Georgia
  • Nov. 2023: Rosalynn Carter passes away, Jimmy Carter’s wife of 77 years
  • 1962: The Carters move back to their family’s peanut farm, where they will be buried

The state funeral for Jimmy Carter is a poignant reminder of his remarkable life and the profound impact he had on the nation and the world. As the ceremonies draw to a close, his legacy as a humanitarian and statesman will continue to inspire future generations.