The procession for Jimmy Carter’s state funeral commenced in South Georgia, marking the beginning of a six-day memorial tribute. Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, was honored with a motorcade that journeyed through his hometown of Plains, where his life began more than a century ago.
A solemn tribute unfolded as Carter’s casket, draped with the American flag, was transported from the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus. Former Secret Service agents, who once protected President Carter, served as pallbearers, providing a poignant farewell as they faced the hearse with hands over their hearts.
The Carter family, along with numerous descendants, accompanied him on this significant journey. Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, is recognized as the longest-lived U.S. president. Participants in the procession lined the streets of downtown Plains, close to the historic train depot that played a pivotal role in Carter’s presidential campaign. Some attendees held flowers or wore pins with Carter’s image, expressing their respects.
Among the crowd was 12-year-old Will Porter Shelbrock, who traveled from Gainesville, Florida, with his grandmother, Susan Cone. Shelbrock, who was born well beyond Carter’s presidency, expressed admiration for Carter’s humanitarian efforts, such as building homes and advocating for peace. ‘He was ahead of his time on what he tried to do and accomplish,’ Shelbrock remarked, noting Carter’s installation of solar panels at the White House.
Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn, shared roots in Plains and spent most of their lives nearby, with the exception of Jimmy’s service in the Navy and his political roles in Georgia and as president. The procession made a significant stop at Carter’s home on the family farm, where the National Park Service rang a bell 39 times to signify his presidency.
Following the procession in Georgia, Carter’s journey proceeded to Atlanta, where his casket was honored with a moment of silence at the Georgia Capitol. The next part of his journey includes a ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center, where his body will lie in repose until Tuesday morning. Subsequently, Carter will be taken to Washington to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol—a customary tribute for heads of state.
The state funeral will occur on Thursday at Washington National Cathedral, followed by a private funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. Carter’s final resting place will be near his home, right next to his beloved wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy as a leader and humanitarian is being honored through a series of tributes that reflect his impact and contributions. The events surrounding his funeral pay homage to a life dedicated to service and lasting change.
