Former President Jimmy Carter passed away on Dec. 29, 2024, leaving behind not only a selfless legacy that bolstered Georgia, but the United States.

When Is Jimmy Carter’s Funeral?

The Carter estate has released the plans for Jimmy Carter’s funeral, which will be a national event:

Carter’s state funeral is set to take place in Washington, D.C., on January 9. In his honor, President Biden has directed that flags at all government buildings nationwide be flown at half-staff for 30 days.

Who Was Jimmy Carter?

Jimmy Carter, born James Earl Carter Jr. on October 1, 1924, is a former President of the United States and a prominent humanitarian. His life and career span decades of public service, marked by his contributions to politics, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts. Here’s an overview of his life and legacy:

Early Life and Career

  • Born in Plains, Georgia, Carter grew up in a modest farming family.
  • Graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and served as a Navy officer, working on nuclear submarine technology.
  • Returned to Georgia in the 1950s to manage his family’s peanut farm.

Political Career

  • Entered politics in the early 1960s, serving in the Georgia State Senate from 1963 to 1967.
  • Elected as the Governor of Georgia in 1970, focusing on civil rights, government reorganization, and environmental issues.

Presidency (1977–1981)

  • Elected as the 39th President of the United States in 1976 as a Democrat.
  • Known for a presidency focused on human rights, energy policy, and diplomacy.
  • Key achievements include:
    1. Camp David Accords: Mediated a peace agreement between Egypt and Israel.
    2. Panama Canal Treaties: Transferred control of the Panama Canal to Panama.
    3. Department of Energy and Education: Established these federal agencies.
    4. Focus on Renewable Energy: Advocated for reducing reliance on foreign oil.
  • His presidency faced challenges such as high inflation, the Iran hostage crisis, and energy shortages.

Post-Presidency and Humanitarian Work

After leaving office, Carter became one of the most active and respected former presidents in U.S. history:

  • Founded the Carter Center in 1982, promoting peace, human rights, and public health worldwide.
  • Worked extensively on global health issues, eradicating diseases like Guinea worm disease.
  • Volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for those in need.
  • Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his lifelong dedication to peace and human rights.

Personal Life

  • Married to Rosalynn Carter since 1946, with whom he shares a deep partnership in his humanitarian efforts.
  • Known for his humility, faith, and dedication to service, Carter remains a beloved figure, especially in his home state of Georgia.

Jimmy Carter is celebrated as a statesman who prioritized ethics, human rights, and the betterment of humanity throughout his life.