Jimmy Carter Honored at Washington Cathedral, Legacy Remembered/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, was honored Thursday at a Washington National Cathedral funeral attended by current and former presidents. The ceremony highlighted his humanitarian legacy and leadership. Afterward, his remains will return to Plains, Georgia, for a final service and burial alongside his wife, Rosalynn.
Jimmy Carter’s Final Farewell: Quick Looks
- Ceremony Highlights: Military honors, hymns, and tributes from family, friends, and dignitaries.
- Presidential Attendance: Biden eulogized Carter; Trump, Obama, and other living presidents attended.
- Legacy Celebrated: Carter’s humanitarian work and presidency remembered.
- Final Resting Place: Burial in Plains, Georgia, alongside Rosalynn Carter.
- Notable Moments: Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood performed “Imagine”; Carter’s grandson shared tributes.
Jimmy Carter Honored at Washington Cathedral, Legacy Remembered
Deep Look
A Solemn Washington Farewell
Jimmy Carter’s extraordinary life was celebrated Thursday in a poignant state funeral at Washington National Cathedral. A 21-gun salute marked the morning’s proceedings as military personnel carried his flag-draped casket from the Capitol Rotunda, where he lay in state.
President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt eulogy, praising Carter’s unshakable decency, integrity, and contributions both in and out of office. Biden, who had supported Carter’s 1976 campaign as a senator, said Carter “showed the world how much good can be accomplished with humility and hard work.”
A Unique Presidential Gathering
The funeral brought together all living U.S. presidents, a rare display of unity. President-elect Donald Trump shook hands with former Vice President Mike Pence, a surprising moment after their public fallout. Trump was later seen conversing with Barack Obama, highlighting the day’s bipartisan tone.
Carter’s passing at 100 years old capped a lifetime of service that inspired tributes from leaders worldwide. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, reflecting on Carter’s humanitarian legacy, said Carter “set the bar for how post-presidencies should contribute to society.”
Tributes from Family and Close Friends
Moving eulogies came from those closest to Carter, including Andrew Young, former U.N. ambassador and a lifelong friend. Young shared stories of Carter’s commitment to equality and justice, bridging the racial divides of their era in Georgia.
Steve Ford, grandson of Gerald Ford, and Ted Mondale, son of Walter Mondale, also delivered tributes. Both men recounted the deep friendships their families shared with the Carters.
Final Journey to Georgia
After the Washington service, Carter’s remains were flown to Georgia aboard Air Force One, accompanied by his family. In Plains, a second ceremony will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church, where Carter taught Sunday school for decades. His casket will rest beneath a wooden cross he crafted himself.
Music will again play a prominent role, with hymns like “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and performances from Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Carter’s funeral procession will pass landmarks of his life before his burial alongside Rosalynn on family land.
A Legacy of Leadership and Humanity
Carter’s presidency (1977–1981) was defined by significant achievements and challenges. He brokered the Camp David Accords, normalized U.S.-China relations, and advanced energy conservation efforts. However, economic struggles and the Iran hostage crisis overshadowed his term, leading to his 1980 defeat by Ronald Reagan.
Post-presidency, Carter and Rosalynn founded The Carter Center, focusing on global health, democracy, and human rights. Their work to eradicate diseases like Guinea worm and mediate conflicts earned Carter a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
A Day of Mourning and Reflection
Carter’s funeral symbolizes the continuity and contrasts of American leadership. His legacy of integrity and service remains a guiding example for future generations, reminding us of the enduring impact one life can have on the world.
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