Washington: Former President Jimmy Carter, the longest-living US president, passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. To honour his life and legacy, President Joe Biden has announced a state funeral for Carter on 9 January 2024, in Washington, DC.

Biden also declared January 9 a National Day of Mourning across the US, encouraging Americans to gather in places of worship to 'pay homage' to the late president. In his White House proclamation, Biden stated, "I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance."

To mark the day, US flags will be flown at half-staff for 30 days starting Sunday, December 30. Biden expressed profound gratitude for Carter's contributions to the nation and invited the public to remember him on this special day.

Carter, who served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, left a lasting impact on both domestic and international affairs. Known for his humanitarian efforts after leaving office, Carter's legacy as a peacemaker and advocate for human rights continues to resonate worldwide.

Agency