On Friday, American dignitaries from both parties gathered to honor the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, the nation’s longest-living president, who passed away last month at the age of 100.
President Joe Biden, who had been the first sitting senator to endorse Carter’s successful 1976 presidential campaign, delivered the eulogy, leading a series of heartfelt tributes. Carter had spent his final years in hospice care in Plains, Georgia, battling an undisclosed illness since 2023. Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected on his extraordinary contributions as president and in his groundbreaking post-presidency.
Carter’s body lay in state at the U.S. Capitol before being transported to the National Cathedral in a somber procession. The funeral coincided with a National Day of Mourning declared by President Biden. Earlier, Carter had been honored in Atlanta at the Carter Presidential Center, where the public paid their respects while his body lay in repose.
The service brought American leaders together, including President-elect Donald Trump, and former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, along with their spouses.
Video from the funeral showed what Obama really thinks of Donald Trump when he doesn’t have to campaign against him.
Obama and Trump talk, smile … (Carter funeral) pic.twitter.com/84zBelvKgx
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) January 9, 2025
That doesn’t really seem like a former president worried that the incoming one will become a “fascist,” does it?
Following the National Cathedral ceremony, Carter’s remains were taken to Plains for a private burial service. He will be laid to rest beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in 2023, in the town where their remarkable journey began.
The day’s events concluded with a missing man formation flyover conducted by the U.S. Navy, a tribute to Carter’s military service. The solemn display added a poignant and fitting end to a day of reflection on the life of a leader who dedicated himself to service and humanity.
