Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President, died on December 29, 2024, at 100. He was the only ex-president to reach this age. His death ends a long, impactful life. He served his country and worked for peace, human rights, and global humanitarian efforts. To honor his memory, President Joe Biden declared January 9, 2025, a national day of mourning. This day coincides with Mr. Carter’s funeral, which will be held at the Washington National Cathedral. Here’s a closer look at the life, legacy, and the commemorations surrounding the passing of this extraordinary man.
The Day of Mourning: What to Expect
The national day of mourning will be on Thursday, January 9, 2025. It will be observed alongside the funeral at Washington National Cathedral. President Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy, remembering Carter’s character, courage, and compassion. Additionally, a eulogy written by the late President Gerald Ford will be read by his son, Steven Ford. This ceremony will reflect Carter’s dedication to his country and the world. He worked relentlessly to improve lives beyond U.S. borders.
Flags at Half-Staff As a mark of respect, American flags will fly at half-staff for 30 days after Carter’s death. This applies to the White House, public buildings, military bases, naval ships, and U.S. embassies worldwide. This tribute honors his great service and contributions, both during and after his presidency.
What’s Closed on the Day of Mourning? On January 9, 2025, federal employees will observe a paid holiday. Only essential departments and agencies will stay open. They are vital to national security, defense, or public safety. The U.S. Postal Service will suspend mail delivery, though limited package delivery services will continue. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will remain closed, as will the United States Supreme Court and federal courts. These closures serve as a collective mark of respect for the former president’s lifetime of service to the nation.
The Life and Legacy of Jimmy Carter
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter served as president from 1977 to 1981. His presidency faced challenges. These included economic crises, the Iran hostage crisis, and a volatile world. However, Carter’s true legacy is his post-presidential work. He advocated for human rights, global health, and peace.
A New Mold for Ex-Presidents
After leaving the White House, Carter refused to retire from public service. Instead, he redefined what an ex-president could do by continuing to engage in diplomatic and humanitarian work. His Carter Center, founded in 1982, has tackled global issues. It has helped end diseases like Guinea worm disease, promoted democracy, and advocated for public health.
The Carter Center’s work in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Haiti has improved health and education, helping millions. This work earned Carter a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, a rare recognition for a former president. His post-presidential years set a new standard for ex-presidents. They proved that their influence can extend beyond their time in office.
Atlanta as a Launchpad
Carter was born and raised in the small town of Plains, Georgia. But, Atlanta gave him the political platform to achieve his goals. Atlanta was key to his political career. There, Carter built lasting relationships that helped him become president. In Atlanta, Carter joined the Habitat for Humanity movement. It would be central to his life after leaving office.
Carter’s Relationship with Successors
Carter’s presidency was controversial. His ties with future presidents were often tense. Carter was outspoken on foreign policy and domestic issues. This sometimes led to disagreements with his successors. Despite these differences, Carter was known for his integrity. He never shied away from standing up for his beliefs.
His challenge to the political establishment earned him respect, but also criticism. However, Carter never allowed these tensions to define him. He remained steadfast in his mission to promote human rights, peace, and social justice, whether in the White House or beyond.
Habitat for Humanity: A Cause of Hope
One of Carter’s most lasting legacies is his work with Habitat for Humanity. This nonprofit builds affordable housing for those in need. In 1984, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, began volunteering with the organization, and it soon became a central cause in their lives. The Carter family’s work with Habitat for Humanity raised awareness of the need for affordable housing. It led to the construction of thousands of homes worldwide.
The Carters’ support for Habitat for Humanity made it a global movement. Their commitment to the cause raised awareness of housing inequality. Today, millions live in homes built by the organization.
Remembering Jimmy Carter: His Impact on the World
Carter’s impact extends beyond the political realm. His humanitarian efforts have transformed communities worldwide. His work in public health and human rights has made a lasting impact. his quiet diplomacy built ties with foreign leaders. It helped resolve conflicts in the Middle East and beyond.
After leaving office, Carter used his position to advocate for democracy and freedom. His work with the Carter Center focused on election monitoring and human rights. He aimed to ensure that citizens in developing nations could vote freely and fairly. Also, his work to promote peace earned him global respect.
Carter’s tireless commitment to improving the lives of others stands as a testament to his deep sense of compassion and empathy. His work in peacekeeping, public health, and fighting poverty will be remembered for generations. It has left a lasting legacy.
Presidents Who’ve Been Honored with a Day of Mourning
Jimmy Carter joins a long list of presidents who have been honored with a day of mourning. The tradition dates back to the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln in 1865. In recent history, national days of mourning have been declared for presidents like George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, and Gerald Ford. They were also declared for prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, who were assassinated in 1968.
These days of mourning let Americans reflect on their leaders’ contributions and their impact on the world. In this context, Carter’s passing reminds us of the power of service. It shows the lasting impact one person’s commitment to a cause can have.
Conclusion
Jimmy Carter’s passing marks the end of an era for the United States. As the only centenarian ex-president, he has a unique legacy. It transcends politics and serves as a model for future generations. His dedication to service, peace, and humanity is unparalleled, and his influence will continue to resonate for years to come. Carter’s legacy will inspire people. His work with the Carter Center, Habitat for Humanity, and his global diplomacy will do so.
On January 9, 2025, we mourn a man who changed the world. He was a president, a humanitarian, and a peace advocate. Jimmy Carter’s life was one of purpose, and his contributions to society will never be forgotten.