Gerald Ford's Connection to Jimmy Carter's Funeral and Its Significance

Tributes and Memories of Gerald Ford at Jimmy Carter's Funeral

Former President Jimmy Carter is being honored in Washington National Cathedral, where the country’s five living presidents have gathered to bid farewell to one of their own. The state funeral comes after mourners braved bitter cold to pay their respects to the nation’s 39th president, who lay in state inside the Capitol. The tributes have included eulogies written by former President Gerald R. Ford and former Vice President Walter F. Mondale before their deaths, read by their sons. Ford’s eulogy addressed the former president directly, stating, “As for myself, Jimmy, I’m looking forward to our reunion. We have much to catch up on.” President Biden will give the closing eulogy for Mr. Carter, culminating a week of tributes in Atlanta and Washington.

Significance of the Presidential Gathering

After a service featuring all the rituals of a national send-off, Mr. Carter will be flown back to his hometown, Plains, GA, for burial outside the modest ranch house where he lived most of his life and passed away last week. This service represents the pinnacle of America’s honors to Mr. Carter, who sought to heal the nation after the traumas of the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War during his presidency from 1977 to 1981.

Inherited Eulogies and Personal Tributes

• Mr. Carter defeated Mr. Ford in the 1976 election but they later became friends.
• Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, will also deliver a eulogy.
• Highlights include a motorcade for Mr. Carter’s final journey and a Navy flyover.

Day of Mourning

President Biden has declared Thursday a national day of mourning, closing the federal government and lowering flags.