
Historic Plains Farewell: Carter Laid To Rest In Humble Georgia Surroundings After Washington Tribute By US Presidents
Former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, was laid to rest on February 20, 2023, in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. Carter, who passed away at the age of 98, was given a state funeral that included a tribute ceremony in Washington, D.C., and a private burial service in Plains.
Humble Beginnings in Plains
Jimmy Carter was born in Plains, Georgia, in 1924. He grew up in a small farming community and attended local schools. After graduating from high school, Carter served in the US Navy and then returned to Plains to join his family’s peanut farming business. In 1962, Carter entered politics and was elected to the Georgia State Senate. He served as Georgia’s governor from 1971 to 1975 and was elected President of the United States in 1976.
Washington Tribute
Carter’s funeral began with a tribute ceremony at the US Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was attended by current and former US presidents, including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George H.W. Bush. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter and other members of the Carter family were also present.
During the ceremony, President Biden praised Carter for his “deep decency” and his commitment to public service. Former President Obama called Carter “a true American hero” who “never stopped fighting for the things he believed in.” Former President Clinton said Carter was “a man of great faith and integrity” who “made the world a better place.”
Return to Plains
Following the tribute ceremony in Washington, D.C., Carter’s body was flown back to Plains, Georgia. A private burial service was held at the Plains Baptist Church, where Carter had been a lifelong member. The service was attended by Carter’s family and close friends.
Carter was buried next to his wife, Rosalynn, in a simple grave at the Plains City Cemetery. The gravesite was marked with a small wooden cross and a plaque that read, “Jimmy Carter, 1924-2023.” Hundreds of mourners gathered at the cemetery to pay their respects to the former president.
A Legacy of Service
Jimmy Carter was a humble man who never forgot his roots in rural Georgia. He served his country with distinction as President and continued to work for peace and social justice throughout his life. Carter’s legacy of service is a reminder that we can all make a difference in the world.
Perspectives on Carter’s Presidency
Jimmy Carter’s presidency was marked by both achievements and challenges. Some of his accomplishments include:
- Negotiating the Camp David Accords, which led to a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel
- Establishing the Department of Energy
- Appointing the first female Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor
- Creating the Environmental Protection Agency
- Signing the Panama Canal Treaty, which returned the canal to Panamanian control
However, Carter also faced a number of challenges during his presidency, including:
- The Iran hostage crisis, which lasted for 444 days
- The energy crisis, which led to long lines at gas stations
- The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan
- High inflation and unemployment
Despite these challenges, Carter remained a popular figure. He left office with a high approval rating and continued to work for peace and social justice throughout his life.
Carter’s Post-Presidency
After leaving the White House, Carter founded the Carter Center, a non-profit organization that works to promote human rights, peace, and democracy around the world. Through the Carter Center, Carter has helped to negotiate peace agreements, monitor elections, and provide humanitarian aid to people in need.
Carter has also been a vocal advocate for social justice issues, including affordable housing, healthcare, and education. He has spoken out against poverty, racism, and discrimination.
Jimmy Carter was a man of great faith and integrity. He was a dedicated public servant who made the world a better place. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Conclusion
Jimmy Carter’s funeral was a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to serving others. Carter’s legacy of service is a reminder that we can all make a difference in the world. We can honor his memory by continuing to work for peace, social justice, and human rights.
