On December 29, the nation mourned the loss of its longest-lived president, Jimmy Carter, who passed away peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the remarkable age of 100. As the country prepares to honor his extraordinary life, a 6-day state farewell is underway.
It commenced this Saturday in south Georgia, where Carter’s journey began more than a century ago. A motorcade bearing his flag-draped casket made its way through the streets of Plains, passing by his home where he spent his formative years.
The procession started at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, with former Secret Service agents who once safeguarded the president serving as pallbearers. Some are seen standing solemnly beside the hearse, hands placed over their hearts in a final salute.
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Accompanied by his beloved family—four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—the Carter family are all taking part in this six-day state funeral, reflecting the deep connections and values that defined the late president’s life. The procession paused in front of Carter’s family farm, where the National Park Service rang the old farm bell 39 times, a fitting tribute to his position as the 39th president of the United States.
Following this intimate moment, Carter’s remains were set to journey to Atlanta, where a moment of silence would occur in front of the Georgia Capitol, followed by a solemn ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center. Here, he will lie in repose until Tuesday morning, before being transported to Washington, D.C., to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol, NBC News reports.
The culmination of these events will take place on Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Washington National Cathedral, where a state funeral will honor his legacy on a national stage. After the ceremony, Carter will return to Plains for an invitation-only funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church, a testament to his lifelong faith and commitment to service.
Ultimately, he will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife, Rosalynn Carter, near their cherished home, symbolizing a profound partnership that spanned decades. As the nation reflects on Carter’s contributions—from his humanitarian efforts to his dedication to democracy—the memories and lessons of his life will continue to resonate for generations to come.
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