Introduction
The legacy of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who passed away peacefully on November 19 at the age of 96, will be honored over a three-day funeral celebration. Survived by her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, Rosalynn Carter’s impact on American history and her unwavering support for her husband will be remembered throughout the commemorations.
Life and Achievements
Rosalynn Carter played a pivotal role as the first lady from 1977 to 1981 during her husband’s presidency. Born on August 18, 1927, in Plains, Georgia, she grew up in a small town and later attended Georgia Southwestern State University. Her life took a turn when she married Jimmy Carter in 1946.
As the first lady, Rosalynn was an active advocate for mental health issues, breaking ground by openly discussing and addressing mental health challenges. Her commitment to social issues extended beyond mental health, as she worked tirelessly on various initiatives, earning her a place as one of the most influential first ladies in history.
In loving memory of First Lady Rosalynn Carter. pic.twitter.com/OWGfpkd1a1
— Jill Biden (@FLOTUS) November 22, 2023
Funeral Itinerary
The funeral arrangements, announced by The Carter Center, encompass three days of ceremonies and services, reflecting the significance of Rosalynn Carter’s contributions.
Day 1: Monday, Nov. 27
- Wreath-Laying and Repose:
- 10:25 a.m.: Carter family motorcade arrives at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center.
- 10:40 a.m.: Motorcade departs to Georgia Southwestern State University.
- 11 a.m.: Motorcade arrives at the Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex, laying wreaths.
- 11:15 a.m.: Motorcade departs for The Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta.
- 3:15 p.m.: Arrival ceremony at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.
- 3:30 p.m.: Repose service in the lobby of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.
- 6-10 p.m.: Public pays respects at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.
Day 2: Tuesday, Nov. 28
- Carter Center Departure and Tribute:
- 11:30-11:45 a.m.: Departure ceremony at the Carter Presidential Center.
- 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.: Tribute service at Glenn Memorial Church at Emory University.
Day 3: Wednesday, Nov. 29
- Funeral Service and Interment:
- 10:55 a.m.: Funeral procession arrives at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains.
- 11 a.m.: Service for family and invited friends at the church.
- 12:30 p.m.: Casket transferred to a hearse, departing for private interment at the Carter family residence.
Public Participation
The public is invited to participate in various aspects of the funeral proceedings:
- Motorcade Route Tributes:
- The public can line the family motorcade route as it proceeds, showing respect along Bond Street and Hwy. 280 in downtown Plains.
- Viewing areas will be designated, with a request to respect private property and park only in designated zones.
- Condolence Book Signing:
- Condolence books will be available at Georgia Southwestern State University, Plains Welcome Center, Plains High School, and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.
Final Resting Place
Rosalynn Carter will be laid to rest in the family plot at the Carter home, now part of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. This park, managed by the National Park Service since its establishment in 1987, includes significant locations such as President Carter’s boyhood farm, their current residence, and more. In a 2018 interview with the Washington Post, both Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter expressed their intention to be laid to rest under a willow tree on the property.
Conclusion
As the nation mourns the loss of a remarkable first lady, the three-day funeral celebration serves as both a remembrance of Rosalynn Carter’s life and a testament to her enduring impact on American society. Her legacy, marked by advocacy, compassion, and resilience, will continue to inspire generations to come.