Family from Suburban Chicago organized former president Jimmy Carter’s Washington D.C. services following his passing

WASHINGTON (WLS) — The funeral service honoring the life and accomplishments of former President Jimmy Carter was organized by a family that originates from the Chicago suburbs.

Rick Jasculca, a Chicago public affairs executive, worked for and with Carter for years, and considered him family.

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It was a somber day that included stories of Carter that brought laughs, as well as tears.

Thursday was a national day of mourning to honor and remember Carter; President Joe Biden delivered a eulogy.

“Biden remarked, “Throughout his lifetime, he exemplified the essence of being a doer of righteous deeds, a devoted and dutiful follower of God and the people.”

The event served as an opportunity for the entire nation to unite, setting aside political differences to join the Carter family in reminiscing about the enduring influence of the 39th president.

“They were small town people who never forgot who they were and where they were from, no matter what happened in their lives,” grandson Jason Carter said.

Jasculca worked on Carter’s 1976 presidential campaign, and did advance work when Carter became president.

He later joined his daughters, Lauren and Aimee, and son, Andrew, working with the Carter Center.

The four family members served as overall coordinators of the ceremony Thursday in Washington, D.C.

Jasculca reflected on the ceremony before returning to Chicago.

“It was really beautiful. You know, I think it really captured the totality of Jimmy Carter,” Jasculca said.

It was a sentiment echoed often during Thursday’s ceremony.

“He had the courage and strength to stick to his principals, even when they were politically unpopular,” Jason Carter said.

Jasculca considered Carter a second father, who became dear to his entire family.

“My grandkids call me ‘Bop’; that’s their name for me. And they call President Carter ‘Bop Jimmy,'” Jasculca said.

Jasculca said, during their ceremony, he had a few moments. But, the emotions really hit him after.

“But, when we got to Andrews Air Force Base, and I knew this was the last time, you know, I’d be able to say goodbye, I just I, I’ll be honest, I bust out crying on the tarmac,” Jasculca said.