President Joe Biden has honored the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at age 100, by ordering flags at half-staff on federal properties for the next 30 days and designating January 9 as a National Day of Mourning.
In a heartfelt tribute delivered in St. Croix, where Biden is vacationing, the president reflected on Carter’s life of “simple decency” and “deeds over words.” Biden shared a personal connection, recounting the support Carter and his wife Rosalynn offered after the death of his son, Beau. “Jimmy knew the ravages of the disease too well,” Biden noted, referring to Carter’s battle with brain cancer, which went into remission in 2015.
Biden described Carter as a leader who upheld the values of honesty, humility, and faith, adding, “In today’s world, someone could see Jimmy Carter as a man of a bygone era… but I see him as a man for all times.”
The president acknowledged Carter’s impactful post-presidential humanitarian work, including advancing human rights, eradicating disease, and promoting free elections worldwide. He also praised the enduring love shared between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, a partnership spanning 77 years.
Biden revealed his plans to deliver Carter’s eulogy, fulfilling a request made by the former president. An official state funeral will be held, with arrangements being coordinated with the Carter family. The ceremony will include Carter lying in state at the Capitol Rotunda and a service at Washington National Cathedral.
“America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian,” Biden remarked, emphasizing Carter’s unwavering dedication to improving lives globally.
Carter’s legacy of compassion, hope, and moral clarity resonates as an enduring example of leadership rooted in decency and purpose.
