On Thursday, renowned country music artists Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter at his state funeral held in Washington, D.C. The couple honored their long-time friend by performing John Lennon’s iconic song “Imagine,” aligning with Carter’s vision of unity and peace. Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States, passed away on December 29 at the age of 100.
The state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral featured several notable speakers, including President Joe Biden, former adviser Stu Eizenstat, and Carter’s relatives, among others. The presence of all five living U.S. presidents—Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush—underscored the significance of Carter’s legacy and the impact he had on the nation.
Following a homily from Reverend Andrew Young, Brooks and Yearwood took to the stage dressed in black, omitting Brooks’ signature cowboy hat out of respect for the occasion. Their performance of “Imagine” was emotionally resonant, accompanied by a montage of photographs depicting Carter’s life and career. Yearwood supported Brooks with harmonies, enriching the heartfelt tribute.
Brooks and Yearwood developed a friendship with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter through their volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. Their bond was evident as they recalled working alongside Carter, who was known for his vigor even into his later years. This connection continued until Carter’s recent passing, as the couple was actively involved in philanthropic projects that honored his legacy.
In a poignant message on social media, Brooks expressed gratitude for Carter’s lifelong dedication to service, emphasizing the profound influence he and Rosalynn had on both their lives and the world at large.
This performance at Carter’s funeral symbolizes the continued inspiration his life has provided to many, reinforcing the values of service and compassion he championed during his time as president and beyond. The heartfelt tribute by Brooks and Yearwood serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite and heal, underscoring the enduring spirit of community that Carter embodied throughout his life.
Overall, the event was a touching homage to a leader whose remarkable contributions to humanity will surely be remembered for generations to come.