Former President Jimmy Carter’s State Funeral to Take Place on January 9, 2024
Former President Jimmy Carter will be honored with an official state funeral on January 9, 2024, in Washington D.C., coinciding with a national day of mourning declared by President Joe Biden. The funeral service, to be held at the National Cathedral at 10 a.m. on January 9, will be preceded by a series of memorial services throughout the week, allowing the American people to pay their respects.
Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100, will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta from January 4-7. During this time, mourners will have the opportunity to honor his legacy before his remains are transported to Washington. On January 7, Carter’s casket will make its way to the U.S. Capitol, where members of Congress will pay their respects during an afternoon service. He will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda until his state funeral.
President Biden is expected to deliver the eulogy during the funeral service, and federal offices will be closed on January 9 as a mark of respect for Carter’s life and service to the nation. The U.S. Supreme Court also announced it would close on January 9 in recognition of the day of mourning.
Congressional leaders from both parties have expressed their intent for Carter’s remains to lie in state at the Capitol. A joint statement from lawmakers noted that the arrangements for this honor would proceed with the approval of Carter’s son, James E. Carter III, and the Carter Center.
Former President Carter, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global human rights work, is remembered for his tireless efforts to promote peace, civil rights, and democracy. His post-presidential work with the Carter Center, founded in 1982, focused on restoring human rights and building democratic institutions in developing countries. The mission of the Carter Center included efforts to eradicate disease and promote free elections worldwide.
In tribute, U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden described Carter as an extraordinary leader and humanitarian, noting his enduring contributions to global peace and human rights. Biden emphasized Carter’s commitment to improving the lives of people around the world, including his advocacy for the most marginalized populations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India also expressed his condolences, highlighting Carter’s vision and his significant role in strengthening India-U.S. relations. Carter’s visit to India in 1978 as president, where he met with leaders such as President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy and Prime Minister Morarji Desai, left a lasting impact on bilateral relations between the two countries.
Carter passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, after having made the decision to stop medical treatment following a series of hospitalizations earlier in the year. His passing marks the end of a remarkable century of life dedicated to peace, service, and humanitarian work.
