Where is Michelle?
Former First Lady Michelle Obama was notably absent from the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter on Thursday due to what has been described as “scheduling conflicts,” as reported by CNN’s Jeff Zeleny. Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away at the age of 100 on December 29. His funeral and memorial services, honoring his long life and dedication to public service, took place across several days, with a final interment ceremony in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.
Michelle Obama, who is known to vacation in Hawaii during the holiday season, was reportedly still there at the time of Carter’s funeral. A spokeswoman for the former First Lady confirmed her absence, explaining that Michelle Obama was not attending the National Funeral Service in Washington, D.C. She did, however, send her condolences to the Carter family and all those who admired the late president’s remarkable life.
As expected, the funeral in Washington was attended by a number of prominent figures. President Joe Biden, who had a long personal relationship with Carter, delivered the eulogy at the Washington National Cathedral. He was joined by First Lady Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. Also present were former U.S. leaders and their wives, including the Obamas, George as well as Laura Bush, along with Bill and Hillary Clinton.
The ceremonies continued with a more intimate service in Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he was laid to rest beside his late wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in 2023. The Carters had made meticulous plans for their modest burial site on the farm where they spent much of their lives.
President Biden described Carter as a man of “principle, faith, and humility,” urging young Americans to study his life as an example of what it means to live a life of purpose and integrity. Vice President Harris, in her tribute earlier in the week, praised Carter for being a “gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty, and grace.”
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, reflected on the unique bond shared by those who have held the office of President, acknowledging the heavy responsibilities that come with leadership.
As the ceremonies continue in Plains, a U.S. Navy flyover will honor Carter’s military service, serving as a poignant reminder of his lifetime of dedication to his country.