Jimmy Carter was truly a remarkable individual, and his farewell reflected the esteemed legacy he left behind. The former President of the United States had been battling health issues for quite some time before he passed away on December 29, 2024. In 2015, he was diagnosed with cancer and later, in early 2023, entered hospice care.
Defying expectations, Carter lived nearly an additional two years after beginning hospice care, eventually passing away just before the new year. His death sparked a plethora of tributes from people everywhere, highlighting his influential role both as a statesman during his presidency and as a humanitarian in the years that followed.
It was only fitting that his funeral, held on Thursday, January 9, was a grand affair attended by numerous prominent figures from both the political sphere and beyond.
A Celebrated Sendoff for Jimmy Carter
One of the most heartfelt moments of the ceremony at the Washington National Cathedral was delivered by celebrated country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Known to have been friends with Carter, they performed a truly moving version of John Lennon’s iconic song ‘Imagine.’
This heartfelt performance came just over a year after they sang the same timeless piece at the memorial service of Carter’s wife, the late former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. It was a touching parallel that resonated deeply with many across the nation, prompting scores of heartfelt messages on social media.
Following the service in Washington, the former president’s body was flown back to his home state of Georgia for a private memorial service in his beloved hometown of Plains. This service was held at Maranatha Baptist Church, a place where Carter had devotedly taught Sunday school lessons.
After the service, a motorcade led Carter for a private interment next to his cherished wife, marking the end of a profoundly dedicated life.
Here is the poignant tribute of ‘Imagine’ performed at his farewell:
Rest in peace, Jimmy Carter. A life well-lived and an inspiration to many.
