Jimmy Carter funeral: Father taught son, Chip Carter, 'the value of hard work'

ATLANTA - During a poignant eulogy at the Carter Center on Saturday, Chip Carter, the son of former President Jimmy Carter, reflected on his father’s extraordinary life, legacy, and the deeply personal lessons he imparted. The service, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries, marked the final farewell to the 39th president, whose impact spanned decades and whose values shaped those closest to him.

"There was a lot of love on the side of the road," Chip said, recalling the motorcade that brought his father back to Georgia. "Every overpass had people on it. It was amazing and gave you goosebumps just to sit in the van and see the reactions of the people of Georgia."

The eulogy served as both a celebration of Jimmy Carter’s life and a testament to his legacy. Chip praised the Carter Center as a place where his father’s vision would continue. "It’s so good to be here at the Carter Center, the circle of the life of our family for the last years," Chip said. "I’m so proud of Jason for accepting to be our family member on the board. We’re trusting him with my father’s legacy now. No pressure, but…"'

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A father’s lessons

Chip offered personal insights into his father’s character, shaped by hard work and a commitment to community. He shared a story from his childhood, when he and his brothers worked at Carter’s Warehouse, labeling 100-pound bags of seed peanuts. "We got paid a dime for every 100 bags," Chip said. "It taught us the value of hard work and trusting your neighbors."

The lessons extended beyond labor. Chip recalled failing Latin in the eighth grade and how his father stepped in. "During Christmas vacation, he came into my room every evening and taught himself Latin from my book just so he could teach me. By the end of the break, I retook the test and scored 100. I owed that to him."

Chip also reflected on simpler, joyful moments, including sledding adventures as children and the camaraderie his father fostered during Boy Scout camping trips. "He told ghost stories—one particularly gross one about our farm—and terrified us all. But it was about teaching resilience and creating bonds."

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A life of sacrifice and legacy

Jimmy Carter’s presidency came with sacrifices, particularly for his family. "When you’re President of the United States, your job is so much more than doing family stuff," Chip said. "We didn’t lose touch, but we had to make appointments to see him. That sacrifice affected our family."

Later in life, Chip found unexpected joy in spending more time with his parents. "For five years, I visited them three nights and two days every week. I took over the farm, and he loved bossing me around. During that time, I became friends with my parents—something I’ll always cherish."

Gratitude for support

Chip expressed deep gratitude to the caregivers and hospice workers who supported his father in his final years. "The hospice folks were amazing, giving us weekly updates and helping us care for him with dignity. One caregiver here today was with him for six years; they became his friends."

He also honored his mother, Rosalynn Carter, for her unwavering partnership. "He was an amazing man, propped up and soothed by an amazing woman. Together, they changed the world."

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Carrying the legacy forward

Chip ended his eulogy with a heartfelt message to those who continue his father’s work. "Thank you for your service and for continuing the work my parents loved. Their legacy lives on in the hands of people like you."

As the service concluded, the Carter family’s commitment to preserving Jimmy Carter’s vision resonated with everyone in attendance. "He taught us the value of hard work, the importance of community, and the power of love," Chip said. "We’ll carry that forward."

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