A series of ceremonies will take place to honor the life of former US President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100.
The state funeral is set for January 9 in Washington, with Carter laid to rest in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, next to his late wife, Rosalynn, who died last year at the age of 96.
Carter’s death occurred on a Sunday, following a two-year period of hospice care.
Here’s an overview of the upcoming funeral arrangements.
Understanding State Funerals
A state funeral is a national event recognizing significant contributions made by Americans to public life.
Most presidents receive this honor, contingent on their family’s agreement.
The ceremony typically spans seven to ten days, featuring events in both Washington and the deceased’s hometown.
The last president to be honored with a state funeral was George H.W. Bush in 2018.
Following him, Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the first woman to lie in state at the US Capitol in 2020.
When Neil Armstrong died in 2012, there were calls for a state funeral, but his family opted for a private service instead.
Details of the Jimmy Carter Funeral
The memorial events for Carter, a Democratic president who served from 1977 to 1981, will occur in three phases.
Kicking off in Plains, Georgia, the observances will then transition to Washington and back to Georgia.
A motorcade will traverse Plains on January 4, stopping at Carter’s childhood home, then proceeding to Atlanta for a public service at the Carter Presidential Center.
Carter’s remains will lie at the presidential library on January 5 and 6.
On January 7, his remains will be transported to Washington, where tributes will commence at the US Navy Memorial, followed by a horse-drawn procession to the US Capitol.
For two days, Carter will lie in state in the US Capitol Rotunda, allowing the public to pay their respects.
The life of President Carter will be celebrated at Washington National Cathedral on January 9, with several former presidents expected to attend.
Attendees at the State Funeral
President Biden will deliver the eulogy at the Washington DC funeral, following Carter’s request made in March 2023.
It is customary for former presidents and first ladies to attend the funerals of their predecessors, which may include First Lady Jill Biden and former President Barack Obama, as well as Bill and Hillary Clinton.
While President Donald Trump’s plans remain uncertain, his wife Melania attended Rosalynn Carter’s funeral last year.
Trump was present at the Washington service for George H.W. Bush, which also hosted five living presidents, including Carter.
National Day of Mourning
In observance of this event, the US federal government will close on January 9, declared as a national day of mourning by President Biden via executive order.
Financial markets, including the New York Stock Exchange, will also suspend operations on that day.
All federal buildings will display flags at half-mast for a period of 30 days.
