Jimmy Carter Passes Away at 100: Commemorating his Life and Legacy
The peaceful death came in his centennial year. He had turned 100 on October 1.
Commemorating the Life and Legacy of Jimmy Carter: A Humble Servant of Humanity
Barely three months ago, on October 1, 2024, I had the privilege of writing a celebratory article titled "Happy Centennial Birthday, Mr. Jimmy Carter!" to honor a man whose life was a testament to service and humility. Today, with a heavy heart, I pen down his obituary. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in American history, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 in his beloved home in Plains, Georgia. Carter, who had been under hospice care for nearly two years following treatment for skin cancer, leaves behind a legacy that transcends political achievements. His passing has transformed what was to be a celebration of his centennial year into a solemn commemoration of a life well-lived and profoundly impactful.
A Final Farewell: State Funeral for Jimmy Carter
Former President Jimmy Carter shall be honored with a state funeral reflecting his extraordinary life and legacy. The arrangements will unfold in three stages. The journey begins in Georgia, where Carter’s body will be transported from Plains to Atlanta by motorcade. He will lie in repose at the Carter Center for 36 hours, offering Georgians and others the opportunity to pay their respects. From Atlanta, his body will be flown to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol for approximately a day and a half. A state funeral will then take place at Washington National Cathedral, a venue symbolic of Carter’s commitment to peace, unity, and faith. President Joe Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy, alongside other national and international dignitaries.
Following the Washington ceremonies, Carter’s journey will come full circle as he returns to Plains, Georgia, for a private burial. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Rosalynn Carter, in the town that not only shaped his values but also defined his enduring legacy. The funeral will be conducted with full state honors, including military guard details, ceremonial processions, and religious services that pay tribute to Carter’s deep faith and lifelong dedication to serving others. An official 30-day mourning period has been declared, during which the American flag will fly at half-staff nationwide. This solemn farewell, with exact dates to be announced soon, will provide a fitting tribute to a leader whose life exemplified humility, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to the greater good.
Remembering Carter: Tributes from Leaders
Tributes poured in following Carter's passing, reflecting his widespread impact and the respect he garnered across political divides. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden praised his principles and humility, calling him "an exceptional leader, statesman, and humanitarian." Former President Barack Obama described Carter as a model of "grace, dignity, justice, and service," while former President Bill Clinton highlighted his faith-driven dedication to serving others.
Even President-elect Donald Trump, often at odds ideologically with Carter, acknowledged his contributions, stating, "He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect."
A Modest Life Rooted in Plains
Born in 1924 in the small rural town of Plains, Georgia, Carter’s life was deeply rooted in the values of his hometown. Even after ascending to the presidency, he remained grounded in his modest upbringing. Returning to Plains after leaving the White House, he continued to live in the same house he and his wife Rosalynn built in 1961. Simplicity and humility defined his character, and Plains, with its population of just 720, served as his lifelong anchor.
Losing the Presidential Elections in 1980
Carter's loss in the 1980 presidential election to Ronald Reagan was a turning point. The Iran hostage crisis, where 52 American diplomats and citizens were held hostage for 444 days, severely impacted his presidency. Economic challenges, including "stagflation," further eroded public confidence. Despite these setbacks, Carter's post-presidential contributions would come to define his legacy far more than his time in office.
A Life of Service and Humanitarian Impact
After leaving the presidency, Carter dedicated himself to global humanitarian work. In 1982, he founded The Carter Center, an organization committed to peace, human rights, and health. His tireless efforts in disease eradication, election monitoring, and conflict resolution earned him the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize. Perhaps most striking was his hands-on involvement with Habitat for Humanity, where even in his later years, he was often seen building homes for those in need.
Facing Adversity with Resilience
In his final years, Carter faced numerous health challenges, including a battle with metastatic melanoma. Despite these trials, he approached life with remarkable resilience, embodying the quiet fortitude that characterized his life. His enduring optimism and commitment to service inspired countless admirers worldwide.
A Legacy of Unity and Compassion
Carter's life offers a powerful reminder of what politics and public service can achieve when driven by compassion, humility, and a commitment to unity. In an era increasingly defined by division, his ability to build bridges and foster understanding remains a beacon of hope and a lesson for future generations.
A Somber Inauguration: Mourning Carter During Trump’s Swearing-In
The 30-day mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter will overlap with the inauguration of Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, creating a rare and somber backdrop for what is traditionally a jubilant event. As dictated by U.S. flag protocol, the American flag will be flown at half-mast for the entirety of this period, including Inauguration Day, in honor of Carter’s passing. This unique juxtaposition reflects both the weight of history and the resilience of democratic traditions.
While the inaugural ceremonies will proceed as planned, the lowered flags will lend a reflective tone to the day, serving as a poignant visual reminder of Carter’s legacy. It is anticipated that both Trump and other speakers will take a moment to acknowledge Carter’s contributions and service to the nation during their remarks. Though traditional events like the swearing-in ceremony, parade, and inaugural address will take place, their tone may be more subdued. Evening celebrations, such as the inaugural balls, may also incorporate moments of remembrance for the late president.
This situation is not without precedent; in 1973, flags remained at half-staff for Harry Truman’s death during Richard Nixon’s second inauguration. The confluence of mourning and celebration serves as a reminder of the continuity of American democracy, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power while honoring those who came before. It underscores the weight and responsibility of the presidency, uniting Americans in a moment that reflects both reverence for the past and hope for the future.
Summing Up: A Farewell to a Humble Statesman
As we bid farewell to Jimmy Carter, we reflect not only on his presidency but on the profound impact of his post-presidential work. His dedication to humanitarian causes, his advocacy for peace and justice, and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others leave an indelible mark on the world. Carter’s life reminds us that true greatness lies in service to humanity, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace, Mr. Carter. You showed the world what it means to lead with humility and compassion.
