Jimmy Carter: A Life of Service Remembered

Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, former governor of Georgia, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away on December 29, 2024, at his home in Plains, Georgia. At 100 years and 89 days old, Carter was the longest-lived U.S. president in history and the first to reach the milestone of a century. He had spent nearly two years in hospice care, surrounded by family and loved ones.

A Life of Dedication and Legacy

Carter's remarkable life included achievements as a statesman and a humanitarian. After serving as president from 1977 to 1981, he dedicated his post-presidency to promoting peace, fighting disease, and advancing human rights worldwide. His efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

After years of health challenges, including a battle with metastatic melanoma, the Carter Center announced in February 2023 that he would receive hospice care at home. Despite expectations of a brief remaining lifespan, Carter defied the odds, living nearly two more years and marking his 100th birthday in October 2024 with a military flyover.

Carter was predeceased by his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023. Their enduring partnership was a cornerstone of his long and impactful life.

Tributes from Across the Globe

Carter’s passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from leaders and citizens worldwide. President Joe Biden described him as "an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian," while former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton also honored his legacy. Tributes came from leaders across the political spectrum, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.

Internationally, Carter’s contributions were recognized by figures such as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The United Nations Security Council held a moment of silence in his memory, and Pope Francis prayed for his eternal peace.

A Nation in Mourning

To honor Carter, President Biden declared a national day of mourning and a federal holiday on January 9, 2025, the day of his state funeral. U.S. flags were lowered to half-staff for 30 days, and gun salutes echoed from military installations. Memorial services were held at landmarks such as the Georgia State Capitol and the Carter Center.

Carter’s remains lay in state at the U.S. Capitol from January 7 to January 9, where dignitaries and citizens paid their respects. A state funeral at Washington National Cathedral included eulogies by President Biden, Carter’s grandson Jason, and representatives of his political peers.

Final Farewell

After the state funeral, Carter's remains were transported back to Georgia for a private family service at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. He was laid to rest in a private burial at his longtime home, marking the end of a life dedicated to service, humility, and humanity.

Jimmy Carter’s legacy will endure as a beacon of compassion and dedication to the greater good, inspiring future generations to work toward peace, justice, and equality.