Jimmy Carter State Funeral Begins In Georgia Hometown

Jan. 5, 2025, 3:22 pm ET

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  • Jimmy Carter’s state funeral began on January 4, 2025, in Plains, Georgia, marking the start of a six-day farewell.
  • The funeral procession includes a motorcade through Carter’s hometown and stops at significant locations in his life.
  • The public can pay their respects at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta until January 7, 2025.

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Essential Context

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away at the age of 100. His state funeral is a culmination of his 100-year journey from rural Georgia to the global stage. The funeral proceedings honor his life, from his boyhood home in Archery to his significant contributions as a statesman and humanitarian.

Core Players

  • Jimmy Carter – 39th President of the United States
  • Carter Family – Including his son Chip Carter and grandson Jason Carter
  • United States Secret Service – Carter Protective Division serving as pallbearers
  • The Carter Center and Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

Key Numbers

  • 100 – Jimmy Carter’s age at the time of his death
  • 39 – The number of times the farm bell was rung in honor of Carter’s presidency
  • January 4-7, 2025 – Dates for the public repose at the Carter Presidential Center
  • 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Public viewing hours at the Carter Presidential Center

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The Catalyst

Jimmmy Carter’s funeral began with a departure ceremony at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. The ceremony included current and former special agents from the United States Secret Service – Carter Protective Division serving as pallbearers.

The motorcade paused at Carter’s boyhood home in Archery, where the farm bell was rung 39 times in his honor.

Inside Forces

The funeral procession is a detailed and respectful tribute, reflecting the significant impact Carter had on his community and the nation. The motorcade travels through several cities in Georgia, allowing the public to pay their respects as it makes its way to Atlanta.

At Georgia’s State Capitol, a moment of silence was held to honor Carter’s service as Governor and State Senator.

Power Dynamics

The Carter Family has invited the public to honor and celebrate the life of Jimmy Carter along the motorcade routes and during the public repose at the Carter Presidential Center. This inclusive approach reflects Carter’s commitment to public service and community engagement.

Key stakeholders, including the Carter Center Board of Trustees, Consuls General of Atlanta, and leaders from Emory University, are scheduled to pay their respects.

Outside Impact

The funeral has drawn widespread attention, highlighting Carter’s legacy as a humanitarian and statesman. The public repose at the Carter Presidential Center has been well-attended, with many coming to pay their respects to the former president.

The event has also prompted reflections on Carter’s contributions to global peace and human rights, underscoring his enduring impact on international relations.

Future Forces

As the nation mourns the loss of Jimmy Carter, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The Carter Center and Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum will remain as lasting tributes to his work.

The family’s official condolence book and a tribute to Carter’s life are available online, ensuring his memory and achievements are preserved and celebrated.

Data Points

  • January 4, 2025: Departure ceremony at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center
  • 10:55 a.m.: Motorcade departs Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm
  • 3 p.m.: Moment of silence at Georgia’s State Capitol
  • January 4-7, 2025: Public repose at the Carter Presidential Center
  • 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.: Public viewing hours at the Carter Presidential Center

Jimmy Carter’s funeral serves as a poignant reminder of his remarkable life and the profound impact he had on both the nation and the world. As the country bids farewell to this beloved statesman, his legacy continues to inspire and guide future generations.