As the nation bids farewell to Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, a series of events are underway to honor his life and legacy. Following his death on December 29, 2023, at the age of 100, Carter’s funeral proceedings include a national day of mourning, public viewings, and services in Washington, D.C., and his hometown of Plains, Georgia.
President Joe Biden has declared January 9, 2024, a national day of mourning, closing federal offices and flying U.S. flags at half-staff for 30 days in honor of the former president.
When Did Jimmy Carter Pass Away?
Jimmy Carter passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 100. A lifelong advocate for peace, humanitarian efforts, and democratic values, Carter left a legacy as a Southern Democrat, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and global leader. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in American history, as he was the longest-living former U.S. president.
Jimmy Carter Funeral Schedule
Carter’s funeral events span several days, beginning in Georgia and culminating in Washington, D.C., with his state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral. Below is the detailed schedule:
Tuesday, January 7
- 6:00 a.m.: Lying in repose concludes at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
- 11:30 a.m.: Departure ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center. The remains are transported to Dobbins Air Reserve Base.
- 12:45 p.m.: Special Air Mission 39 departs for Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.
- 3:30 p.m.: A horse-drawn caisson carries the remains to the U.S. Capitol. A Congressional service follows, after which the public can pay respects as Carter lies in state.
Wednesday, January 8
- 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. (Jan. 9): Public viewing continues as Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
Thursday, January 9 (Jimmy Carter Day of Mourning)
- 10:00 a.m.: National funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral, featuring prominent leaders and dignitaries.
- 3:45 p.m.: Private funeral service at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where Carter taught Sunday school for decades.
- 5:20 p.m.: A private interment at Carter’s residence, accompanied by a missing man formation flyover by the U.S. Navy.
Jimmy Carter Mourning Day
In a tribute to Carter’s legacy, January 9 has been designated as Jimmy Carter Day of Mourning. Federal offices, including post offices, will be closed, and mail delivery services will be suspended.
While Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo will remain open, some institutions, like the National Archives, will close temporarily to accommodate road closures and memorial events.
How to Watch Jimmy Carter’s Funeral
For those unable to attend in person, Carter’s funeral will be widely broadcast and live-streamed:
- TV Broadcasts: Coverage begins at 9 a.m. ET on NBC News
- Online Streaming: The service will be available on NBC.com, the NBC mobile app, and the Washington National Cathedral’s YouTube channel.
Honoring Carter’s Legacy
Jimmy Carter’s funeral proceedings reflect his profound impact on both domestic and global affairs. From his humanitarian work with Habitat for Humanity to his commitment to peace through the Carter Center, the former president’s legacy endures.
As we observe this Jimmy Carter day of mourning, Americans across the nation are invited to reflect on his enduring contributions and the values he championed throughout his life.
For additional updates on the Jimmy Carter funeral schedule, visit official government and news outlets to ensure timely information.
