**On January 9, the United States will commemorate Jimmy Carter's legacy with various ceremonies and tributes, following his death at the age of 100.**
**National Mourning Declared for Former President Jimmy Carter**
**National Mourning Declared for Former President Jimmy Carter**
**A Day of Reflection as the Nation Pays Tribute to Its Longest-Lived President**
Former President Jimmy Carter, the longest-serving President in US history, will receive a state funeral on January 9 at the Washington National Cathedral, amidst a nationwide day of mourning for a leader revered for his humanitarian efforts. The eulogy planned to be delivered by his former vice president, Walter Mondale, will now be read by Mondale’s son after his passing in 2021, as reported by the New York Times. This marks a significant moment as the nation honors a man who devoted his life to service.
In addition to the funeral, public memorial services will be held in Atlanta, Georgia, prior to Carter's burial in his family’s property in Plains, where he lived most of his life. Following tradition, President Joe Biden has mandated that flags on all federal buildings be flown at half-staff for 30 days, coinciding with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. The Carter family has graciously accepted the opportunity for Carter to lie in state at the US Capitol, allowing citizens and officials to pay their respects.
President Biden expressed that January 9 should be a day to remember Carter, who he described as embodying “the very best of America: A humble servant of God and the people.” Former President Donald Trump acknowledged their differences but praised Carter as "a truly good man," receiving commendations from fellow presidents, including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, who lauded Carter for his grace and service.
A historic gathering is anticipated, with all four living ex-presidents expected to attend. Looking back at the 2018 funeral of George H.W. Bush, where over 1,000 guests, including dignitaries such as then-Prince Charles and former Prime Minister John Major, honored his legacy, a similar turnout is expected for Carter's memorial. Stock markets will be closed honoring this national day of mourning.
Carter's presidential tenure from 1977 to 1981 was marked by strides towards global peace, economic challenges, and a commitment to human rights. Later, he earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his continued advocacy and founded the Carter Center, dedicated to humanitarian efforts, including disease eradication and global health initiatives.
As the nation mourns the passing of a true servant leader, Habitat for Humanity’s CEO, Jonathan Reckford, conveyed condolences and reflected on Carter’s enduring impact, stating, “We are deeply saddened by President Carter's passing, and our prayers are with the Carter family.”
