On January 7, 2025, the United States commenced a series of solemn ceremonies to honor the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. Carter's casket arrived at the U.S. Capitol, where he now lies in state, allowing the public and dignitaries to pay their respects to the 39th President.
The day's events began with Carter's remains being transported from Georgia to Washington, D.C., via Special Air Mission 39. Upon arrival, a motorcade escorted the casket to the U.S. Navy Memorial. From there, a horse-drawn caisson carried it along Pennsylvania Avenue to the Capitol, symbolizing Carter's journey from a humble peanut farmer in Plains, Georgia, to the nation's highest office.
In the Capitol Rotunda, Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside congressional leaders, delivered heartfelt tributes. Harris remarked, "James Earl Carter Jr. loved our country. He lived his faith, he served the people, and he left the world better than he found it."
Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson also honored Carter's legacy, emphasizing his humility, dedication to public service, and post-presidential humanitarian efforts, including his work with Habitat for Humanity and his Nobel Peace Prize-winning initiatives.
The public is invited to pay their respects as Carter lies in state until January 9. A state funeral is scheduled at the Washington National Cathedral, where President Joe Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy. Following the Washington ceremonies, Carter's remains will return to Plains, Georgia, for a private funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church, where he will be interred beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in 2023.
This week of remembrance not only honors Carter's presidency but also his lifelong commitment to peace, human rights, and service to others.