GRAND FAREWELL

The state funeral of former U.S. president Jimmy Carter was a magnificent, memorable and moving occasion

-  SUZANNE WINTROB

It was a fitting send-off for an American icon. In a moving state funeral at Washington National Cathedral attended by world leaders, British royalty and music legends, family and friends of 39th U.S. president Jimmy Carter opened up about the many things they'd learned from him and the legacy he has left for generations to come.

“[His] friendship taught me, and through his life taught me, that strength of character is more than title or the power we hold,” said President Joe Biden, 82, in a heartfelt eulogy to the man he'd known for almost six decades (and whom he had endorsed for the presidency while still a young senator). “It’s the strength to understand that everyone should be treated with dignity [and] respect. That everyone, and I mean everyone, deserves an even shot.”

The service marked the first time since George H.W. Bush’s 2018 funeral that five living U.S. presidents had come together under one roof. Seated behind Joe and First Lady Jill (who attended with Kamala Harris and husband Doug Emhoff) were Bill and Hillary Clinton (with former vice-president Al Gore behind them) and George W. and Laura Bush. Barack Obama and Donald Trump – who brought wife Melania – sat side by side and even appeared to engage in some light-hearted banter.