The funeral of former President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025, was a moment to celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy. However, the memorial service became the subject of debate after Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood performed John Lennon’s Imagine.
While the song was meant to honor Carter’s vision of peace and unity, its lyrics sparked controversy. Critics felt that lines like “Imagine there’s no heaven” were inappropriate for a Christian funeral held at the National Cathedral. Some called the performance “disrespectful” and questioned its suitability for the occasion.
Despite the backlash, others defended the tribute, noting the deep friendship between Brooks, Yearwood, and the Carters. The couple had worked closely with Carter on numerous charitable projects, including Habitat for Humanity, and shared his commitment to service and unity. For them, Imagine was a fitting tribute to a man who believed in bridging divides and fostering understanding.
Jimmy Carter had often spoken about his admiration for the song, seeing it as a universal message of hope. While the performance divided opinions, it highlighted Carter’s enduring legacy of love, service, and the belief in a better world.
