Preserving Leadership Legacies: Insights from Jimmy Carter’s Funeral

By Pearl Matibe in Washington D.C.

03 January 2025

The funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, from January 4 to January 9, 2025, offers valuable lessons on how the U.S. honours its heads of state. This structured, multi-day event is divided into three key stages, each symbolising national unity and the respect a nation shows for its leaders. For Zimbabweans, particularly students and those interested in international relations, Carter’s state funeral provides insight into diplomatic practices, leadership legacies, and global ceremonies.

Stage I: Ceremonies in the Home State

The funeral begins in Carter’s home state of Georgia, on 4 January 2025. This phase includes local ceremonies and a personal reflection on his contributions to both the U.S. and the global community.

Stage II: National Mourning in Washington, D.C.

On 7 January, Carter’s body will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol, in Washington, in the District of Columbia, offering Americans an opportunity to pay their respects. A National Funeral Service will be held at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. on 9 January, symbolizing the country’s collective mourning and recognizing Carter’s legacy.

Stage III: Burial and Final Ceremonies

The final stage of the funeral takes place in Georgia, where Carter will be interred in a private ceremony. This represents a return to his roots and a final farewell surrounded by family and close friends.

This ceremonial process not only honours Carter’s contributions to peace and humanitarian efforts but also offers insight into how state funerals are structured, emphasizing the importance of leadership, legacy, and the role of national institutions in marking the passing of a major figure.

For those interested in global leadership and diplomacy, the observance of Carter’s state funeral provides critical educational value, particularly for those examining the practices of countries with international influence, such as the U.S.

Zimbabweans interested in enhancing their understanding of global political rituals and their leadership can gain significant perspective from such events.

The schedule of the funeral service can be found here: https://www.jimmycartertribute.org/funeral/index.html

Information for the public wishing to participate can be found here: https://www.jimmycartertribute.org/funeral/visitation-guide.html

Pearl Matibe is a Washington, D.C.-based geopolitical analyst and correspondent covering Congress, the Pentagon, State Department, and White House, with expertise in foreign and defense policy. Follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe.