Tributes Pour In as Americans Bid Farewell to Jimmy Carter

As Americans gather to pay their respects, reflections on Jimmy Carter's character and contributions echo profoundly from mourners and family alike.

Americans are coming together to honor and mourn former President Jimmy Carter as a nearly week-long state funeral commences in Georgia. The procession that took place on Saturday, traveling from Carter’s home in Plains to Atlanta, marked the start of a public farewell for the 39th president, who passed away last month at the age of 100. Next, Carter’s remains will be transported to Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, where a line of honor will occur at the US Capitol, culminating in a service filled with remembrances from former presidents on Thursday.

Hundreds of fans, locals, and admirers from across the globe descended on Atlanta to pay tribute to the Carter family. Heather Brooks, an admirer from Atlanta, shared her thoughts, stating, "He was always kind, relatable—just an awesome individual who has done so much for the world, not just America." Brooks expressed her admiration for Carter, noting his combination of power and humility.

Paige Alexander, head of the Carter Center, emphasized that Carter should be remembered for his authenticity and moral fortitude. "You had a politician who could acknowledge his opponents respectfully during debates," she said, contrasting it with current sentiments in politics. Outside the Carter Center, memorials have bloomed, filled with flowers, handwritten notes, and bags of peanuts—a nod to Carter's roots as a peanut farmer.

Among those reminiscing fondly about the former president was Jill Stuckey, a long-time family friend, who expressed her grief over losing a prominent figure devoted to public service. As the motorcade passed significant landmarks, including the church where the Carters wed, the public shared in honoring this remarkable life.

On Saturday, the procession paused at the family’s historic farm, now part of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, where a bell tolled 39 times in his honor. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp led a moment of silence at the state capitol.

In the days ahead, mourners will have the opportunity to visit Carter at his presidential library before he lies in state at the Capitol Rotunda, allowing the public to pay their respects. His final service will be held at Washington National Cathedral, drawing several former presidents to commemorate his life.

The tributes are not only political; family members have voiced heartfelt memories. Jason Carter, the former president's grandson, shared how much he will miss his grandfather. "He was a beacon of love and respect, and that is certainly something we should celebrate," said Jason, emphasizing the personal connection that made Jimmy Carter a cherished figure.