What we know about the late Sen. Lindsey Graham’s funeral plans

What we know about the late: `html Commemorating Senator Lindsey Graham: A Two-Day National Tribute South Carolina's beloved Republican senator will receive a

Sandego.net – “`html

Commemorating Senator Lindsey Graham: A Two-Day National Tribute

South Carolina’s beloved Republican senator will receive a comprehensive memorial over the course of two days beginning next week. The observances encompass both the nation’s capital and his home state, featuring a distinguished ceremony within the United States Capitol building alongside a personal address from President Donald Trump. Senator Darline Graham, who serves as the late legislator’s sibling and was selected to complete his remaining tenure, revealed on Tuesday that Washington, DC will host the initial celebrations on July 28, followed by South Carolina events on July 29.

The distinguished senator passed away earlier in the current month at seventy-one years of age. According to preliminary conclusions reached by the Washington, DC medical examiner’s office, the cause of death was an aortic dissection, commonly described as a tear within the arterial wall.

Capitol Honors and Cathedral Service

The opening day of commemorations commences at the United States Capitol, paying homage to Graham’s distinguished military background and extensive political journey. Members of the Armed Forces Body Bearer Team will transport his remains into the Capitol building, symbolizing his dedicated service within the Air Force. Once inside, this military contingent will be succeeded by a US Capitol Police memorial guard, representing his years of legislative service as a United States senator.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune confirmed that a special ceremony will subsequently occur within the Capitol Rotunda. His statement captured the deep affection many lawmakers hold for their departed colleague:

“For so many of us in the Senate and the House, myself included, Lindsey was more than a colleague, he was a friend. From the military to state politics to decades of representing South Carolinians in Congress, Lindsey dedicated his life to giving back through public service. As we say our final goodbyes, it seems fitting for his friends and colleagues to give back to him through this special Capitol honor.”

Following the Capitol proceedings, Graham’s remains will travel to the Washington National Cathedral for a funeral service scheduled at 2 p.m. Eastern Time. President Trump is expected to deliver a tribute during this ceremony. The relationship between the two men evolved considerably over time; while Graham initially criticized the former president, he ultimately transformed into one of Trump’s most steadfast supporters on Capitol Hill.

Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper shortly after learning of Graham’s passing, the president expressed his sorrow:

“What a terrible loss it is. He’s a great politician. He was a natural. Very few of them. He was a natural politician. Got along with everybody.”

South Carolina Celebrations and Legacy

After the Washington service concludes, Graham’s remains will journey to South Carolina for additional funeral proceedings the following day. The July 29 observances will commence with a procession at the state capitol building, where the South Carolina State Guard caisson detachment will carry his remains. An F-16 aircraft flyover will precede the transportation of his remains to the First Baptist Church of Columbia.

Both days of public ceremonies will culminate with a private interment ceremony located in Pickens County. Throughout his life, Graham remained unmarried and never had biological children. He played a significant parental role in raising his sister, Darline Graham, following the passing of their parents, and eventually formally adopted her.

Darline Graham, whose appointed service extends through January 2027, announced on Monday her intention to seek election to a full Senate term during this November’s elections. President Trump had previously encouraged her candidacy for her late brother’s congressional seat, promising his “complete and total endorsement” should she decide to enter the race.

“`