Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, is celebrated for his enduring contributions as a public servant, humanitarian, and advocate for peace. From his humble beginnings as a peanut farmer in Georgia to his impactful presidency and transformative post-presidential humanitarian work, Carter’s life exemplifies a deep commitment to improving the human condition. Below, we explore his life story, health challenges, final days, and plans for his funeral.
His Life and Legacy
Jimmy Carter was born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, into a modest farming family. Raised with strong Christian values and a dedication to hard work, Carter’s early years laid the foundation for a life of service. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, he served as a naval officer before returning home to manage the family’s peanut farm.
Carter’s political journey began with his election as a Georgia state senator in 1962 and later as governor in 1970. His presidency, from 1977 to 1981, was marked by significant achievements, including the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, the Panama Canal treaties, and efforts to advance human rights worldwide. Despite facing economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis, Carter’s emphasis on integrity and transparency left a lasting impression.
Post-presidency, Carter’s work reached new heights through The Carter Center, which he co-founded with his wife, Rosalynn, in 1982. The organization focused on global health, conflict resolution, and democratic governance. Carter’s dedication earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, cementing his legacy as a humanitarian.
Here’s a timeline of key events in Jimmy Carter’s life, highlighting significant personal, professional, and political milestones:
Early Life
- October 1, 1924: Born in Plains, Georgia, to James Earl Carter Sr. and Lillian Gordy Carter.
- 1941: Graduates as valedictorian from Plains High School.
- 1943: Enrolls at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
- 1946: Marries Rosalynn Smith on July 7; graduates from the Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree.
Naval Career
- 1946–1953: Serves in the U.S. Navy, working on submarines and advancing to lieutenant.
- 1953: Resigns from the Navy following his father’s death to return home and take over the family peanut farming business.
Early Political Career
- 1955: Becomes involved in local politics, serving on the Sumter County Board of Education.
- 1962: Elected to the Georgia State Senate.
- 1966: Runs for governor of Georgia but loses.
- 1970: Elected as the 76th governor of Georgia, serving from 1971 to 1975.
Presidential Career
- December 12, 1974: Announces candidacy for President of the United States.
- November 2, 1976: Wins the presidential election, defeating Gerald Ford.
- January 20, 1977: Sworn in as the 39th President of the United States.
- 1978: Oversees the Camp David Accords, brokering peace between Egypt and Israel.
- 1979: Establishes diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China; faces the Iran Hostage Crisis later that year.
- 1980: Loses re-election to Ronald Reagan.
Post-Presidency
- 1982: Establishes The Carter Center, promoting peace and health worldwide.
- 1994: Brokers a peace agreement between North Korea and the U.S. over nuclear weapons.
- 2002: Wins the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in promoting democracy, human rights, and economic development.
Later Years
- 2015: Announces he has been diagnosed with cancer but later reveals he is cancer-free.
- 2019: Becomes the oldest living former U.S. president in history.
- February 2023: Enters hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia.
His Illnesses
In his later years, Carter faced several significant health issues. In 2015, he was diagnosed with melanoma that had spread to his brain and liver. Remarkably, he responded well to treatment, including immunotherapy, and continued his active schedule, teaching Sunday School and engaging in humanitarian efforts.
In February 2023, Carter entered hospice care, signaling his desire to spend his remaining days at home, surrounded by family. This decision reflected his lifelong emphasis on dignity, simplicity, and faith.
Jimmy’s Final Days
Jimmy Carter’s final days have been a testament to his character. Known for his humility and deep spirituality, Carter chose to remain in Plains, Georgia, focusing on his faith, family, and the causes he championed. Tributes from around the world celebrated his achievements and his role as a moral compass in American and global politics. His decision to enter hospice care has also inspired greater awareness of end-of-life care and planning.
Funeral Plans
Carter will be honored with a state funeral on January 9, 2025, designated as a National Day of Mourning by President Joe Biden. The ceremonies will commence with Carter lying in repose at the Carter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, allowing the public to pay their respects. Subsequently, his casket will be transported to Washington, D.C., where it will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda from January 7 to January 9. The state funeral service will be held at the Washington National Cathedral, with President Biden expected to deliver the eulogy, fulfilling Carter’s earlier request.
Following the Washington ceremonies, Carter’s body will return to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private burial beside his late wife, Rosalynn. Jimmy Carter has meticulously planned his funeral, ensuring it reflects his values of humility, faith, and service. His funeral will take place in Plains, Georgia, where his journey began. The event will include personal touches, such as his favorite hymns and readings that highlight his deep Christian faith.
A public memorial service is expected to be held at the Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta, providing an opportunity for people to honor his life and legacy. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity and The Carter Center are anticipated to be part of the service, underscoring his lifelong commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Carter’s burial will be in Plains, Georgia, in a location that holds deep personal significance to him and his family. The ceremony will honor his life’s work and the values that defined him.
FAQ: Jimmy Carter’s Final Arrangements
Below are answers to common questions about Jimmy Carter’s final arrangements, including his funeral and related considerations.
What is hospice care, and why did Jimmy Carter choose it?
Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and dignity during the final stages of life. Jimmy Carter entered hospice care in February 2023, choosing to spend his remaining days at home with his family, reflecting his preference for simplicity and peace.
Will there be a public memorial service for Jimmy Carter?
Yes, a public memorial service is expected to be held at the Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta, allowing the public to pay tribute to his life and legacy.
Where will Jimmy Carter be buried?
Jimmy Carter has chosen to be buried in Plains, Georgia, his hometown, at a location near the family home where his journey began.
What religious elements will be included in his funeral?
As a devout Christian and lifelong Sunday School teacher, Jimmy Carter’s funeral will include religious elements reflecting his faith, such as Bible readings, hymns, and prayers.
What organizations are expected to be represented at his funeral?
Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, The Carter Center, and others associated with Carter’s humanitarian work are likely to be represented during the service.
How can the public honor Jimmy Carter’s legacy?
The public can honor his legacy by contributing to causes he championed, such as Habitat for Humanity, or by visiting the Carter Presidential Library and Museum to learn more about his life and work.
Will there be a live broadcast of the funeral?
It is likely that the funeral and memorial services will be broadcast live to accommodate the widespread interest in celebrating Carter’s legacy.
What personal touches will be included in his funeral?
Jimmy Carter’s funeral will reflect his humility and values, including personal touches such as references to his humanitarian work, favorite hymns, and his love for his hometown of Plains, Georgia.
How has Jimmy Carter influenced the funeral industry?
Jimmy Carter’s emphasis on simplicity, dignity, and hospice care has inspired conversations about end-of-life planning, encouraging many to consider similar approaches for their own arrangements.
