As the state funeral for the 39th US President Jimmy Carter commences in Georgia, Americans unite to honor his legacy. The ceremony kicked off with a poignant procession on Saturday that journeyed from Carter’s home in Plains to Atlanta, marking the beginning of a six-day public farewell for the beloved leader, who passed away last month at the age of 100.
Carter is set to be transported to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, where he will lie in state at the US Capitol before a memorial service on Thursday featuring remarks from former presidents.
Attendees from Georgia and across the globe are gathering in Atlanta to pay their respects to the late president. Heather Brooks, a devoted admirer from Atlanta, reflected, “He was always kind, relatable, and an incredible individual who made significant contributions not only to America but to the world.”
Paige Alexander, leader of the Carter Center, emphasized that Carter should be remembered for his “sincerity and integrity,” highlighting his respectful nature even in political debates. The area outside the Carter Center has transformed into a tribute space filled with flowers, handwritten notes, and bags of peanuts, paying homage to his roots as a peanut farmer.
Friends of the Carters, including longtime family friend Jill Stuckey, expressed deep sadness at his passing, noting their unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts. The motorcade passed significant landmarks, including the Methodist church where the Carters wed and their final residence. Upon his interment alongside his late wife, Rosalynn, who passed away at 96, he will be remembered profoundly.
The procession also included a moment of reflection at the Georgia State Capitol, led by Governor Brian Kemp. Mourners will have the opportunity to pay their respects at the presidential library on January 5 and 6, before Carter’s transfer to Washington on January 7.
In Washington, he will lie in state for two days at the Capitol Rotunda, open to the public, before a service at Washington National Cathedral on January 9, attended by numerous former presidents.
As political accolades pour in, Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, poignantly shared, “For many, he was a beacon of love and respect, a legacy truly worthy of celebration.”
