Incumbent US President Joe Biden has paid tribute to the "strength of character" and faith of former president Jimmy Carter at a state funeral for the "great American" in Washington DC.
Mr Biden delivered the eulogy to his predecessor before a congregation at Washington National Cathedral that included former presidents Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton, and a host of dignitaries.
Mr Carter, the 39th president of the US and noted humanitarian, died on December 29, aged 100.
Mr Biden recalled his friendship with his predecessor and how he was the first to back the then-Georgia state senator for the presidency in 1976.
Taking the White House during a period of soaring inflation and geopolitical turmoil, he would serve just one term, from 1977 to 1981, but has been commended for his continuing public service after leaving office.
"Jimmy Carter's friendship taught me, and through his life taught me, that strength of character is more than title or the power we hold," Mr Biden said.
"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 outgoing president, who will hand over to Mr Trump on January 20, also used the eulogy to warn against the "abuse of power", adding: "We have an obligation to give hate no safe harbour, and to stand up to the greatest sin of all: the abuse of power."
Throughout the service, family members and close friends paid tribute to his values, politically difficult decisions and his dedication to humanitarian and environmental causes.
Jimmy Carter's grandson Jason honoured his grandfather at the state funeral with a blend of personal anecdotes, humour, and admiration.
He depicted his grandfather as a humble "PawPaw" from a small town who, despite his global prominence, remained deeply connected to marginalised communities.
Jason highlighted Carter's intense drive, ambition, and unwavering commitment to helping others, both in politics and beyond.
He also referenced a church song that reminded him of his grandfather’s life, which he described as a constant reflection of God's goodness.
Finally, he expressed gratitude to the attendees, especially former presidents and first ladies, for recognising the human side of the US presidency.
Mr Biden also reflected on Mr Carter's post-presidency life, saying he used his time after office to make a "powerful difference".
"That's the definition of a good life, a life Jimmy Carter lived during his 100 years."
UN chief, world leaders in attendance
Jason Carter, also paid tribute to his grandfather's recognition of climate change as early as the 1970s, as well as his determination to rid the world of preventable diseases.
"Half a century ago, he preached an end to racial discrimination and an end to mass incarceration," he said.
"Fifty years ago, he was a climate warrior who pushed for a world where we conserved energy, limited emissions and traded our reliance on fossil fuels for expanded renewable sources."
The president's grandson said Carter pursued a progressive agenda, labelling him the world's oldest millennial.
"He cut the deficit, wanted to decriminalise marijuana, deregulated so many industries that he gave us cheap flights and … craft beer," he said.
"As president, he gave voice to dissidents, stood up to dictators, brought countries together in peace."
Also at the service were Vice-President Kamala Harris, former vice-president Mike Pence and former secretary of state Hilary Clinton.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and UN Secretary-General António Guterres also attended.
AP
