The nation paid its final respects to former President Jimmy Carter on Thursday in a solemn funeral at Washington National Cathedral. Carter, the 39th U.S. president, was celebrated for his humility, public service, and enduring commitment to faith and humanity.
President Joe Biden, who first endorsed Carter’s 1976 presidential bid as a senator, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, emphasizing Carter’s character and legacy. All living former U.S. presidents attended the ceremony, highlighting the bipartisan reverence for Carter’s life and work.
Speakers recalled Carter’s post-presidential efforts, including building homes with Habitat for Humanity, combating global disease, and promoting peace. His grandson, Joshua Carter, reflected on his grandfather’s humility and devotion, recounting how Carter taught Sunday school in Plains, Georgia, long after leaving the White House.
Carter’s other grandson, Jason, spoke about the former president and Rosalynn Carter’s frugal, small-town lifestyle. Their shared dedication to service, he said, exemplified their commitment to their roots and their faith.
Andrew Young, a longtime friend and former U.N. ambassador under Carter, described him as a blessing to the nation, bridging racial and political divides during his lifetime.
The funeral marked an extraordinary gathering of political figures. Former rivals, including Barack Obama and Donald Trump, briefly set aside differences to share conversations during the service. Biden’s eulogy highlighted Carter’s commitment to dignity and respect for all, a principle he said should guide leaders.
The ceremony featured military honors, hymns, and readings, reflecting Carter’s Baptist faith. Following the service, Carter’s remains were flown back to Georgia for a final farewell at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, where he will be buried alongside his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter.
Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, faced challenges during his presidency, including economic troubles and the Iran hostage crisis. However, eulogists, including former aide Stu Eizenstat, sought to highlight overlooked successes, such as deregulating industries, advancing energy policy, and securing the Israel-Egypt peace agreement.
Carter’s legacy endures not only in his presidential accomplishments but in a life dedicated to faith, humility, and global service. His burial in Plains concludes six days of national mourning for a man remembered as a servant leader and a devoted Christian.
