Nation Pays Respects: Jimmy Carter Lies in State at the U.S. Capitol

On Wednesday, an array of Americans gathered at the U.S. Capitol to pay their last respects to former President Jimmy Carter, who lay in state in the Capitol’s rotunda ahead of his funeral scheduled for Thursday. Visitors from across the nation flocked to Washington, D.C., some with personal anecdotes about the late president and others simply wishing to honor a revered figure in American history.

Honoring a Legacy of Service

Among those in attendance was Catherine, from Gaithersburg, Maryland. She shared with Fox News her deep respect for Carter, particularly highlighting his lifelong dedication to helping others. “One of the reasons that I respect him is that he showed a lot of us older folks that when you retire, you don’t just stop working,” she expressed. “You can use your resources and your experience to help other people, and that’s what I hope to do.”

Catherine’s sentiments echoed throughout the crowd, as many visitors spoke of how Carter’s post-presidency work, particularly through Habitat for Humanity and his global humanitarian efforts, inspired them to contribute positively to their communities.

A Personal Connection to the President

Riley Cagle, a Georgia native, shared his family’s personal connection to Carter, describing him as a “dear friend of [his] family.” Even though Cagle did not know the former president personally, he relayed stories his grandparents shared about their encounters with Carter throughout his life, including his unique culinary preference for pineapple sandwiches. “Man, they just don’t make them like him anymore,” Cagle remarked, reflecting the nostalgia and admiration many felt for the late president.

Those waiting in line to view Carter’s casket represented a tapestry of American society, united in their respect for a man who served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981.

Celebrating a Humble Servant

Another visitor from Maryland, who chose to remain unnamed, spoke to Fox News about Carter’s character. “He was the epitome of a faithful and humble servant,” she stated, emphasizing the humility with which he approached both his presidency and his post-presidential endeavors. “Congratulations on a job well done,” she added, encapsulating the admiration that many feel toward Carter’s approach to life and public service.

Crossing Political Boundaries

Carter’s death has sparked a rare moment of unity, transcending political lines. Ted McConnell, who worked on former President Gerald Ford’s 1976 campaign, was present at the Capitol to show his support. “As you well know, President Ford and President Carter became compatriots and close friends after the presidency, so I’m supporting both President Ford and President Carter today,” he explained, proudly wearing a “Jimmy Carter for President” button.

McConnell praised Carter’s dedication to humanitarian work worldwide, recounting his commitment to serving others long after leaving office. “I am honored to honor him in his laying in state,” he said, reinforcing the sense of catchall respect for Carter’s character beyond partisan divisions.

Encouragement to Attend and Pay Respects

Among the crowd was Eric Stromayer, who reminisced about volunteering for Carter’s campaign as a high school student in the 1970s. He spoke positively about the swift progress of the lines to view Carter’s casket, urging any potential visitors to seize the opportunity for a proper send-off. “If you want to give a good send-off to a highly regarded president, come down and seize the opportunity,” he advised, highlighting the collective desire among Americans to participate in this historic moment.

Funeral Plans and Final Farewell

Carter’s casket is scheduled to be removed from the U.S. Capitol Rotunda at 9 a.m. on Thursday, as the nation prepares for his state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral beginning at 10 a.m. Following the ceremony, his remains will return to Georgia via Special Air Mission 39 for a private ceremony in his hometown of Plains.

The moment serves as a poignant reminder of Carter’s enduring legacy, illustrating how he will be remembered not only for his time in office but also for his unwavering commitment to service and philanthropy throughout his life.

Additional contributions to this report were provided by Fox News’ Rich Edson and Chad Pergram.