State Funeral for Former President Jimmy Carter: A Day of Tribute and Mourning
Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away last month at the age of 100, is being honored in a state funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. The event is marked by a national day of mourning and is attended by all living U.S. presidents and first ladies.
Timeline of Events
10:20 a.m.
Joshua Carter, Jimmy Carter’s grandson, reflected on his grandfather’s legacy during the service:
“My grandfather spent the entire time I’ve known him helping those in need. He built houses for those who needed homes,” Joshua shared, referencing Carter’s work with Habitat for Humanity. “He eliminated diseases in forgotten places. He waged peace wherever he saw an opportunity. He loved people.”
10:14 a.m.
The service officially began as President Carter’s casket was carried into the National Cathedral by military officers, with his family following in procession.
10:01 a.m.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrived and were seated beside Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff.
9:57 a.m.
A notable moment occurred as President-elect Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama shared a conversation, with Obama laughing several times—a rare display of camaraderie between the two political rivals.
9:53 a.m.
Former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, along with former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, arrived at the service. The Bushes sat next to Obama, with the Clintons taking the aisle seats opposite Trump.
9:50 a.m.
Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence shared a handshake—their first public interaction in four years. Trump and Melania Trump were then seated beside Obama.
9:38 a.m.
Jimmy Carter’s casket arrived at the National Cathedral.
9:00 a.m.
The casket departed the U.S. Capitol, where it had been lying in state since Tuesday, for the National Cathedral.
Notable Absences
Former First Lady Michelle Obama did not attend the service due to a scheduling conflict. An Obama spokesperson shared that she “sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family.” Former President Barack Obama represented the couple at the funeral.
National Day of Mourning
President Joe Biden declared Thursday a national day of mourning to honor Carter’s life and service. Flags will remain at half-staff until later this month, and federal agencies and the New York Stock Exchange were closed for the day.
Final Farewell
Following the National Cathedral service, Carter’s body will be flown to Georgia and transported to his hometown of Plains. A private funeral service is scheduled for approximately 3:45 p.m., followed by a procession through downtown Plains. President Carter will be laid to rest beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023.
Stay tuned for updates as the nation honors the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.