In brief
The funeral of former president Jimmy Carter, who recently passed away at the age of 100, is set to be a significant event marked by national mourning and celebration of his legacy.
The United States is poised to honor the life and contributions of former President Jimmy Carter with a state funeral scheduled for January 9, in remembrance of his impactful tenure. Following his recent passing at age 100, ceremonies will commence in his hometown, Plains, Georgia, before transitioning to Washington D.C., and concluding back in Georgia.A state funeral serves as an emblematic national tribute to individuals who've made substantial contributions to public life, typically lasting seven to ten days. Carter’s services will reflect this tradition, starting with a motorcade through Plains on January 4, stopping at his childhood home, before moving to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta for a public service. His remains will then be displayed at the presidential library on January 5 and 6, before being transported to D.C. on January 7.The official ceremonies will begin at the US Navy Memorial, followed by a horse-drawn procession to the Capitol, where Carter will lie in state for two days, allowing the public to pay their respects. A memorial service will culminate at Washington National Cathedral, set for January 9, during which President Joe Biden is expected to deliver the eulogy—a request made by Carter himself in March 2023.Attendance at the state funeral will likely include several former presidents and first ladies, with notable figures such as the Obamas, the Clintons, and possibly Donald Trump among the expected guests. The federal government will observe a national day of mourning on the day of the funeral, with financial markets also closing in honor of Carter.In remembrance, flags at federal buildings will be flown at half-mast for 30 days, underscoring Carter's enduring impact on American politics and society.
