The body of former President Jimmy Carter arrived in the Washington, D.C., area on Tuesday as the nation prepares for a state funeral honoring the life and legacy of the 39th president. Carter, who passed away at his Georgia home on Sunday, December 29, at the age of 100, was the longest-living president in U.S. history. His death came after nearly two years of at-home hospice care.
Since Saturday, Carter’s remains have been lying in repose at the Carter Center in Atlanta, marking the beginning of a six-day tribute leading up to his national funeral service on Thursday, January 9, 2024, at the Washington National Cathedral.
On Tuesday morning, Carter’s remains were transported aboard Special Air Mission 39 to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. From there, a ceremonial motorcade will escort his hearse to the U.S. Navy Memorial. Upon arrival, a horse-drawn caisson will carry his remains in a solemn procession to the U.S. Capitol.
A congressional memorial service is scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Capitol Rotunda, where members of Congress will pay their respects. Carter will then lie in state in the Rotunda, allowing the public to honor him until Thursday morning.
The series of tributes reflects the deep respect for Carter’s legacy as a statesman, humanitarian, and advocate for peace and human rights.
President-elect Donald Trump said he plans to attend former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral.
Trump told reporters, “I’ll be there. We were invited.”
After Carter’s death, Trump wrote on Truth Social, “I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History.”
“The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude,” Trump wrote, noting that he and Melania are “thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers.”