Funeral proceedings commemorating the life of former President Jimmy Carter commenced on Saturday, marking the beginning of a week-long tribute to the 39th U.S. president and global humanitarian. Carter, who passed away at 100 the previous week, is being honored with ceremonies reflecting his path from his Georgia roots to the international stage.

The day began with mourners paying their respects in Carter's hometown of Plains, Georgia, leaving flowers and heartfelt messages at his monument. Among the tributes were hardhats from Habitat for Humanity, an organization close to Carter's heart, inscribed with condolences.

In the afternoon, a motorcade transported Carter's casket to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, where a private memorial service was held. Family members shared personal anecdotes, including Carter's son, James Earl Carter III (Chip), who recounted stories of his father's involvement with his Boy Scout troop, from hiking trips to fireside ghost stories. Chip also recalled a touching instance of his father helping him study for a Latin exam during a Christmas break.

The Morehouse College Glee Club provided music for the service. Carter's body lay in repose at the Carter Center overnight for public viewing.

Following the Atlanta ceremonies, Carter's remains will be taken to Washington, D.C., to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol. A national funeral service is scheduled at the Washington National Cathedral, with President Biden anticipated to deliver the eulogy. All other living former presidents have also been invited. After the national service, Carter will be returned to Plains, Georgia, for a private burial alongside his wife, Rosalynn, who predeceased him in November 2023.

The motorcade's route from Plains to Atlanta included symbolic stops at locations significant to Carter's life, including his boyhood home, his 1976 campaign headquarters, and a gas station once owned by his brother. Upon arriving in Atlanta, the motorcade paused at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence observed by state and local officials.