PLAINS, Ga. - The beloved former first lady, Rosalynn Carter, was laid to rest on a chilly late-November day in the small town of Plains, Georgia. The private funeral took place at the Maranatha Baptist Church, where her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, taught Sunday school lessons for many years.

About 200 family members and invited friends gathered at the church to pay their final respects to Rosalynn Carter, who passed away at the age of 96. Despite her passing being a somber occasion, Pastor Tony Lowden, in his eulogy, lightened the mood by joking about her competitive nature, which the congregation laughed at.

The service, which was much smaller in scale compared to Tuesday's memorial service in Atlanta, was attended by the frail 99-year-old former president. Sitting in a wheelchair, he led the family as they bid their final farewell to his wife of 77 years.

During the intimate funeral, tributes were shared by Rosalynn's son, John "Jack" Carter, and grandson, Joshua Carter, while scripture readings were done by three of her 14 great-grandchildren. The service also featured a performance of "The Lord's Prayer" by actress and singer Joanna Maddox, as well as a choral rendition of "Amazing Grace" by the Georgia Southwestern State University Concert Choir, representing Rosalynn Carter's alma mater.

The Carters' eldest son, Jack Carter, fondly remembered his mother's skill at disagreeing with his father, referring to her as a true partner who stood on equal footing. Pastor Tony Lowden praised Rosalynn Carter's character, highlighting how universally loved she was, with no one having a negative thing to say about her due to her compassionate nature and her unwavering faith.

Before the funeral, close friends of Rosalynn gathered at the church to share stories, reminiscing about the remarkable woman they had lost. The church was filled with laughter and tears as memories were shared.

The funeral procession, consisting of a long line of black SUVs, moved through the town's center, passing by the Plains train depot, marking the heart of the town and a significant place during Jimmy Carter's 1976 presidential campaign. Citizens of Plains lined the streets, some with hands over their hearts, paying their respects to the former first lady as her hearse slowly made its way to her final resting place.

Rosalynn Carter was buried in a private ceremony on the sloping lawn of the small ranch house that the Carters built in 1961. The location was chosen by the Carters themselves years ago, with the intention of transforming their home and burial site into a museum that would generate tourism and support for Plains.

Known for her commitment to mental health issues and caregiving, Rosalynn Carter made significant contributions to society throughout her lifetime. She championed these causes during her time in the White House as well, attending Cabinet meetings and advising her husband on political matters.

As Plains bids farewell to their beloved former first lady, the legacy of Rosalynn Carter's dedication to service and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come.