The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is carried into the Washington National Cathedral for his state funeral on Thursday, January 9. Chip Somodevilla/Getty
(EPICSTORIAN) – Washington, D.C.— Former President Jimmy Carter, a beacon of integrity and statesmanship, was honored on Thursday at a solemn state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.
Jimmy Carter: A Legacy of Character Honored at State Funeral
The ceremony, attended by a gathering of current and former leaders, reflected the 39th president’s lifelong commitment to service and unity.
President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt eulogy, emphasizing Carter’s enduring legacy of character and humility. “Jimmy Carter’s friendship taught me—and through his life, taught us all—that strength of character transcends titles and power,” Biden said.
He highlighted Carter’s ethos of service, which shaped his presidency and post-White House endeavors.
A Rare Presidential Gathering
In a rare convergence of political leaders, the front pews featured President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and President-elect Donald Trump alongside former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. This assembly marked the first such gathering since George H.W. Bush’s funeral in 2018.
Despite their political differences, the attendees set aside partisanship to honor Carter’s legacy. “Today, we are reminded that our shared humanity transcends politics,” said former President Obama, who was seen exchanging words with Trump during the service.
Carter and Ford: A Friendship Beyond Politics
A poignant moment in the ceremony came as a tribute to Carter’s unexpected friendship with former President Gerald Ford, his 1976 electoral opponent.
Ford’s son, Steven, read his father’s words: “Somewhere over the Atlantic, Jimmy and I forged a friendship that transcended politics.” The two presidents had pledged to eulogize one another, a promise Carter fulfilled at Ford’s funeral in 2007.
This camaraderie highlighted Carter’s ability to bridge divides, a trait praised by many speakers. Rev. Andrew Young, Carter’s former UN ambassador, lauded the late president’s “tough mind and tender heart.”
Young reflected on Carter’s capacity to find common ground despite differences, saying, “Jimmy Carter symbolized the greatness of the United States through his character and compassion.”
A Life of Service and Accomplishment
Carter’s presidency (1977-1981) was marked by landmark achievements, including brokering the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, normalizing relations with China, and securing the Panama Canal treaties.
Post-presidency, his work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center is a testament to his dedication to human rights and global health.
Jason Carter, the late president’s grandson, called him “the first millennial” for his progressive stances, including environmental conservation and social justice. “He lived ahead of his time,” Jason said, touching his grandfather’s casket.
Musical Tribute: “Hail to the Chief”
In a poignant nod to Carter’s unique approach to the presidency, the U.S. Coast Guard Band performed “Hail to the Chief” as his casket was carried out. The song, which Carter famously disfavored, symbolized the dignity of the office he held. “He once resisted this song but came to accept it as part of the American presidency,” remarked Kaitlan Collins of CNN.
A Final Journey
Following the service, Carter’s body was transported to Plains, Georgia, for a private burial. The motorcade passed through Washington streets lined with mourners, a testament to the profound respect Carter commanded across the nation.
Reflecting on Legacy
Carter’s century-long life, which concluded on December 29, left an indelible mark on American history. As President Biden aptly stated, “Character is destiny. Jimmy Carter’s life teaches us that true greatness lies in purpose and humility.”
The gathering of leaders from diverse political backgrounds served as a fitting tribute to a man who championed unity over division. In death, as in life, Jimmy Carter inspired a nation to rise above discord and embrace the higher calling of service.
