Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Jimmy Carter
Over the next six days, a series of poignant events will take place across the United States to honor the remarkable life and career of Jimmy Carter. Dignitaries, supporters, and everyday citizens will come together to pay tribute to the 39th president, reflecting on his journey from his humble beginnings on a farm in rural Georgia to his impactful years in Washington and beyond. These carefully curated gestures of remembrance are designed to evoke the essence of Carter’s legacy, emphasizing his deep-rooted connections to Plains, Georgia, his political journey, and his global advocacy efforts.
Schedule of Events
- Saturday, January 4
At 10:15 a.m., the Carter family will arrive at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. There, former and current members of the Secret Service detail, who once protected Carter, will assist in escorting his body to a hearse. This hearse will then embark on a solemn journey to Plains, the hometown of the former president.
The motorcade is anticipated to pass through the streets of Plains, making a brief yet significant stop at his childhood farm. During this moment, the National Park Service will toll the farm bell 39 times, a heartfelt tribute to Carter’s service as the 39th president of the United States.
Following this touching pause in Plains, the motorcade will continue its route to Atlanta, where it is scheduled to arrive at approximately 3 p.m. Upon reaching Atlanta, the motorcade will halt for a moment of silence at the Georgia State Capitol, a place where Carter once served as governor and began to shape his political legacy.
Subsequently, a private service will take place at the Carter Center in Atlanta. This location holds special significance, as it is home to Carter’s presidential library and serves as the headquarters for an organization dedicated to promoting democracy, combating diseases, and addressing various global challenges.