The long farewell to Jimmy Carter commenced in Georgia as his flag-draped casket journeyed through his hometown of Plains, making its way to Atlanta, marking the beginning of the 39th U.S. President’s state funeral.
Carrying forth the legacy of a man revered for his humanitarian efforts, Jimmy Carter’s state funeral initiated at Americus, with his remains being moved from the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center by current and former Secret Service agents. They escorted the funeral procession as it rolled towards Plains, accompanied by Carter’s family, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. As the hearse departed, a somber whistle resonated, while onlookers placed their hands on their hearts, honoring the former president.
In Plains, Georgia, where Carter was born on October 1, 1924, he was met by mourners who lined the streets, some carrying flowers and donning pins bearing his image. Despite being born over three decades after Carter left office, 12-year-old Will Porter Shelbrock expressed his admiration for Carter, appreciating his forward-thinking nature and dedication to causes such as climate change and humanitarian work. Shelbrock’s grandmother accompanied him to Plains, underscoring the lasting impact Carter had on generations.
For Willie Browner, a local from nearby Parrott, Carter symbolized a former era of politics that was focused on collective well-being. Browner reflected on the significance of having a president originate from a small Southern town. This sentiment was echoed by many, as the procession through Plains highlighted Carter’s humble beginnings and his remarkable ascent to global influence as a political leader and advocate for democracy and human rights.
Throughout the procession, significant landmarks punctuated Carter’s life story. The hearse passed the old train depot from his barebones 1976 presidential campaign, which leaned heavily on public funding, starkly contrasting with modern billion-dollar campaigns. It moved past the family peanut warehouse and the modest home where Carter and his late wife Rosalynn lived together until their passing.
At the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, the procession was commemorated by the National Park Service, with rangers paying tribute in front of Carter’s childhood home. The bell rang out 39 times, signifying his tenure as the 39th president, while linking his upbringing during the Great Depression and his experiences with economic hardships and racial inequalities to his future endeavors in public service.
The journey continued toward Atlanta, with a moment of reflection planned at the Georgia Capitol before arriving at the Carter Presidential Center. Here, Carter will lie in repose until the transfer to Washington, where he will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol, leading up to a formal service at the Washington National Cathedral. His burial will follow in Plains, adjacent to Rosalynn Carter.
Jimmy Carter’s final farewell embodies a journey through the milestones of his life and legacy, drawing attention to his humble beginnings and notable contributions to the nation and beyond. His funeral procession not only commemorates his stature as a leader but also highlights the enduring impact of his advocacy for peace, democracy, and human rights.
Source: Wsvn
