Former President Jimmy Carter is being honored as he lies in state at the U.S. Capitol, following his passing at the age of 100 on December 29. His remains arrived in Washington, D.C., on January 7, culminating a series of tributes that began in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. After a ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects, his casket was flown to Joint Base Andrews before a procession to the Capitol.

The casket was transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial, representing his naval service as a lieutenant who contributed to nuclear submarines. This tribute will lead to the Capitol, where a private service for members of Congress commenced at 3 p.m. followed by public visitation until midnight (source: USA Today).

President Joe Biden has called for flags at federal buildings to fly at half-staff for 30 days in Carter’s honor, declaring January 8 a National Day of Mourning. Carter's funeral service is scheduled for January 11 at the Washington National Cathedral, where Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy, along with other notable attendees including former President Donald Trump (source: Reuters).

Carter's commitment to humanitarian efforts post-presidency earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, reinforcing his legacy beyond his tumultuous time in office marked by economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis. His enduring impact is reflected in the outpouring of respect from the public as they remember his story from a peanut farmer in Georgia to the presidency (source: BBC).

Following the funeral in Washington, Carter's remains will be returned to Georgia for a private service and burial next to his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023 (source: CBS News).

As the nation reflects on Carter's life and service, the solemnity of these ceremonies showcases the deep respect held for one of America's enduring political figures.