The funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, held on Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral, was marked by moving tributes from world leaders, family members, and close associates, reflecting his profound legacy of service and integrity.
President Joe Biden, delivering a heartfelt eulogy, praised Carter’s lifelong dedication to justice, dignity, and moral leadership.
“We have an obligation to give hate no safe harbor and to stand up to the greatest sin of all—the abuse of power,” Biden said, emphasizing the late president’s enduring lessons of character and respect.
“Jimmy Carter showed us what it means to be a practitioner of good works, a faithful servant of God, and a champion of the people,” Biden added.
Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, described him as the “definition of integrity,” highlighting his consistency in private and public life, along with his trailblazing efforts in environmental conservation and humanitarian initiatives.
Stuart Eizenstat, Carter’s former domestic policy adviser, lauded his bipartisan approach, moral compass, and groundbreaking focus on civil rights and human rights in U.S. foreign policy.
Former United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young shared touching anecdotes about Carter’s humility, sensitivity, and spirituality, recalling his efforts to foster unity and equality. “It’s still hard for me to understand how you could get to be president from Plains, Georgia,” Young quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience.
Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, was celebrated as a visionary leader whose legacy transcended generations. Among his many accomplishments was the near-eradication of Guinea worm disease, a testament to his commitment to global health.
The state funeral was attended by an array of political figures from across the spectrum, including President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, President-elect Donald Trump and Melania Trump, former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, as well as other dignitaries.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy remains a beacon of hope, compassion, and service, reminding the nation of the enduring power of principled leadership.