The United States will observe a National Day of Mourning on January 9, 2025, in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024. This day will see significant closures across various sectors, including the stock market, as the nation pays tribute to Carter's humanitarian efforts and commitment to public service.
President Joe Biden, who has a long-standing connection with Carter, will deliver a eulogy at the national funeral service held at Washington National Cathedral. Carter's funeral will be marked by a series of ceremonies, beginning with a brief arrival ceremony at 8:30 a.m. CT, followed by the main service at 10 a.m. CT. After the national service, Carter's remains will be transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private funeral service and interment.
The observance of this day is rooted in a tradition that dates back to the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, highlighting the nation's respect for its leaders.
In line with the National Day of Mourning, U.S. stock markets, including the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, will close their equity and options markets. This decision reflects a long-standing tradition on Wall Street to honor the passing of national leaders. Federal agencies will also observe the day by closing their operations, as mandated by an executive order from President Biden. All federal employees, except those essential for national security and public needs, will receive the day off. This closure extends to U.S. courts, including the Supreme Court, reinforcing the significance of the day across governmental functions.
The United States Postal Service will suspend regular mail deliveries and retail services on January 9, ensuring that the observance is respected nationwide. However, the Postal Service will continue to process volume dropped by commercial mailers at processing facilities, with limited package delivery services available to maintain operational integrity. Regular postal operations are expected to resume the following day, January 10. While many public schools will remain open, organizations affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity, including military schools, will close in observance of the National Day of Mourning.
The national funeral service for Jimmy Carter will be broadcast live on NBC News, with coverage starting at 9 a.m. ET. Savannah Guthrie and Lester Holt will anchor the coverage, providing viewers with insights and updates throughout the service. For those unable to watch on television, the funeral will also be available for streaming on NBC.com and the NBC mobile app.
The funeral schedule includes a series of significant events, such as the lying in state concluding at 6 a.m. and a motorcade transporting Carter's remains to various locations throughout the day. The public will have opportunities to pay their respects as the motorcade travels through downtown Plains, culminating in a private interment ceremony at Carter's residence, where a missing man formation flyover by the U.S. Navy will honor his naval service.
The observance of the National Day of Mourning serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated public service can have on society. The closures and tributes reflect a collective respect for a leader who, even after his presidency, continued to advocate for humanitarian causes and the betterment of the human condition.