Jimmy Carter Honored with Performance of 'Imagine' at State Funeral

The choice of John Lennon's song, performed by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, drew mixed reactions for its alignment with Carter's values and its lyrics' contrast with his Christian faith.

Former President Jimmy Carter's state funeral at Washington National Cathedral featured a rendition of John Lennon's 'Imagine,' performed by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.
The song, reportedly one of Carter's favorites, was chosen to reflect his lifelong commitment to peace and unity, despite its controversial lyrics about religion and borders.
Critics questioned the appropriateness of the song at a Christian funeral, citing its opening lines, 'Imagine there's no heaven,' as inconsistent with Carter's deep faith.
Brooks and Yearwood, longtime friends of the Carters through Habitat for Humanity, previously performed the same song at Rosalynn Carter's funeral in 2023.
The funeral was attended by current and former U.S. presidents, dignitaries, and family members, marking the conclusion of six days of national rites for the late president.