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Plains, Georgia Honors the Legacy of Jimmy Carter

Community members gather to honor the legacy of Jimmy Carter in his hometown.

News Summary

Plains, Georgia, is in mourning following the peaceful passing of former President Jimmy Carter at the age of 100. His death prompted heartfelt tributes from locals and nationwide, while preparations for his state funeral begin. To honor Carter’s legacy, flags are flying at half-staff, and memorial gatherings are taking place across the country. The week-long farewell will culminate in a National Funeral Service, reflecting his profound impact on the nation and the community of Plains.

Plains, Georgia Remembers a Legend

The heartfelt atmosphere in Plains, Georgia has been thick with emotion as the nation mourns the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away peacefully at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024. The news, announced on December 30, sent shockwaves of sorrow rippling through the hearts of many, not only in Plains but across the entire country.

Flags at Half-Staff

In honor of Carter’s remarkable life and legacy, flags are flying at half-staff in his beloved hometown. Many locals, including Christine Mason from Atlanta, have begun placing flowers outside The Jimmy Carter Presidential Center in remembrance of the man known for his kindness and commitment to public service.

Final Farewell Services

Preparations are underway for the state funeral services set to take place from January 4, 2025, to January 9, 2025. The poignant journey of farewell will kick off at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. At 10:15 a.m. on January 4, family, friends, and the loyal citizens of Georgia will gather to pay their respects.

Current and former Secret Service agents will play an important role in the somber ceremonies, respectfully carrying Carter’s remains to a hearse. As the motorcade travels through Plains, a brief pause will take place at Carter’s family farm. The historic farm bell will toll 39 times — a powerful reminder of a life dedicated to service.

Moments of Silence and Gatherings

At 3 p.m. on January 4, the motorcade will reach Georgia’s State Capitol, where a moment of silence will honor Carter’s extraordinary contributions. The car will then proceed to the Carter Presidential Center for an official arrival ceremony at 3:45 p.m. and a service scheduled for 4 p.m. That evening, starting at 7 p.m., Carter will lie in repose, welcoming mourners who wish to pay their respects.

A Journey to the Nation’s Capital

Carter will then make a solemn journey to Washington, D.C. On January 7, at 9:30 a.m., a motorcade will depart the Carter Presidential Center for Dobbins Air Reserve Base. During this time, the former president will travel on Special Air Mission 39, with a scheduled departure at 10:40 a.m. for Joint Base Andrews, arriving at 12:45 p.m.

Once in Washington, a hearse will carry Carter’s remains to the U.S. Navy Memorial at 1:15 p.m., and a funeral procession will follow, transferring his remains to the U.S. Capitol at 2 p.m. Members of Congress will have the opportunity to pay their respects during a service at 3 p.m. that day. The public is also invited to view Carter while he lies in state from 7 p.m. to midnight.

National Funeral Service

The week of remembrance will culminate in a National Funeral Service at Washington National Cathedral on January 9, 2025, starting at 10 a.m. Afterward, Carter will return to Georgia for a private interment at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. A touching flyover in a missing man formation by the U.S. Navy will salute his military service prior to the final farewell.

Community Gatherings

As news of his passing spreads, memorial services have begun at locales significant to Carter’s life and legacy, including Manuel’s Tavern in Atlanta — the very place where he launched his campaign for Georgia governor back in 1970. Patrons have been seen raising a glass in his honor and sharing cherished memories of their interactions with him.

A Lasting Impact

Carter’s legacy goes beyond the presidency. He played a pivotal role in transforming Georgia into an entertainment hotspot by establishing the Georgia Film, Music, and Digital Entertainment Office during his governorship. His infectious spirit and dedication to the community will continue to inspire generations to come.

As Plains stands together in this time of grief, it is clear that former President Jimmy Carter will be remembered not just as a politician, but as a genuine friend to many, leaving behind a monumental legacy of compassion and dedication to service.