Thursday will be observed as a local holiday territory-wide in accordance with President Joe Biden’s declaration of a National Day of Mourning to honor the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter Jr., Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. announced Wednesday.
All non-essential government employees are granted administrative leave on Thursday, he said, and public schools will be closed. Essential government employees are expected to report to work as scheduled, according to the release. Businesses and private organizations are encouraged to observe the day as they deem appropriate, it said.
Carter, the 39th president of the United States, died on Dec. 29 at age 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, after a life devoted to service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. His casket arrived at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday afternoon and the state funeral will take place on Thursday, with Biden delivering the eulogy.
Bryan also announced that he will travel out of the territory from Wednesday through Friday to attend Carter’s funeral at the invitation of Biden.
As a leader, humanitarian, and advocate for global peace and democracy, Carter’s contributions to the nation and the world have left an indelible mark on history, the press release from Government House stated.
“President Jimmy Carter was a statesman whose legacy of humility, courage, and boundless compassion will forever inspire us all,” Bryan said. “His leadership extended beyond politics, reminding us that true service to humanity transcends personal ambition. The Virgin Islands joins the nation in honoring his remarkable life and contributions.”
Bryan issued an Executive Order declaring Jan. 9, 2025, a local holiday in the Virgin Islands to provide residents an opportunity to reflect on and commemorate Carter’s life and service, the release stated. This observance aligns the Virgin Islands with the National Day of Mourning declared by Biden, it said.
While the governor is out of the territory, Finance Commissioner Kevin McCurdy will serve as acting governor and Senate President Novelle E. Francis Jr. will serve as acting lieutenant governor as Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach will also be out of the territory during this time, according to the release, which did not give a reason for his absence.
Carter, known for his leadership during his presidency from 1977 to 1981, spent decades after leaving office championing human rights, democracy, and global health initiatives through the Carter Center. His unwavering dedication to improving lives and his humility as a leader continue to resonate worldwide, the release noted.
“The Bryan administration extends its deepest condolences to the Carter family, the people of Georgia, and the entire nation during this time of remembrance,” it said.
