Why Michelle Obama did not attend Jimmy Carter's funeral

Michelle Obama did not attend Jimmy Carter's funeral due to scheduling conflicts but sent condolences. Political leaders united at the service to honor Carter's legacy of human rights and peace.

In Short

• Michelle Obama absent from Jimmy Carter's funeral.
• All living US Presidents and their wives attended.
• Michelle was on vacation in Hawaii with scheduling conflicts.

Former US President Barack Obama's wife Michelle Obama was conspicuous by her absence at the funeral of Jimmy Carter despite all other living US Presidents and their wives attending the ceremony.

The ceremony was attended by Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W Bush, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. Former first lady Melania Trump, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former first lady Laura Bush and first lady Jill Biden were also at the ceremony.

According to a CNN report, Michelle did not attend the funeral since she was on an extended vacation in Hawaii, with her advisors confirming that she had scheduling conflicts.

In a statement, Obama’s spokesperson Crystal Carson said that the former first lady was sending her “thoughts and prayers” to the Carter family.

“Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President,” Carson said.

Jimmy Carter, who was the longest-living president in US history, died at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia, the town where he was born. He spent nearly two years in hospice care before his death.

The service saw political leaders from both sides of the divide coming together to pay respects to the former US President who was known for his commitment to human rights and peace.

Former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump were seen seated next to each other at the funeral.

Both the leaders, who have a history of differing political views, shared a lighthearted conversation prior to the service.

Michelle Obama and Barack Obama had earlier issued a joint tribute to Carter following his death on December 29, 2024.

The Obamas reflected on Carter’s lifelong commitment to principles like integrity and compassion, noting his belief that all people are created equal.

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a eulogy at the ceremony while President Biden shared reflections on Carter’s extraordinary life.