President Joe Biden has declared Jan. 9 a national day of mourning for former President Jimmy Carter and announced Monday that all federal government offices will be closed that day in honor of the 39th US president, who died Sunday at the age of 100 Done. ,
“I call on the American people to gather in their places of worship that day to honor the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr.,” Biden said in a formal announcement issued late Sunday. “I invite those of the world who share our grief to join us in this sacred ritual.”
unknowingly biden revealedAt a national Democratic Party event last March, Carter – also a Democrat – asked him to deliver his eulogy.
in their sstatement late sunday nightBiden described Carter as “a man of character, courage and compassion whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential politicians in our history.”
He continued: “He embodied the best of America: a humble servant of God and of the people. “A heroic advocate for global peace and human rights, and a respected leader whose moral clarity and optimistic vision lifted up our country and changed our world.”
In pictures: Tributes to former President Jimmy Carter
The ceremony, to be held on January 9 in the nation’s capital, will be attended by all living US presidents and many dignitaries. Biden also ordered the US flag to be flown at half-staff on public buildings, military posts and overseas US government buildings for 30 days from the date of Carter’s death.
Biden has granted Carter a state funeral, a three-phase, multi-day event coordinated by the US military that includes ceremonies in the capital, as well as ceremonies in the deceased’s home state.
Carter has repeatedly expressed his wish to be buried with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, in their front yard in the small town of Plains, Georgia. He died in 2023. Carter was in hospital care for two years before his death, and his death at the age of 100 made him the longest-lived former president in American history.
In pictures: A look at the life of President Jimmy Carter
In Washington, services are likely to be held at the grand Washington National Cathedral, which has hosted several past state funerals, including those of former presidents Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford and George HW Bush.
All four living US presidents are expected to attend Carter’s funeral – that list includes Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, former and future Presidents Donald Trump and Biden. Biden, 82, is now the eldest politician of that group.