Jimmy Carter’s memorial service on January 9, 2025, at the National
in Washington, D.C., sparked controversy when Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood
performed John Lennon’s “Imagine.” The song’s lyrics, especially “Imagine there’s
no heaven,” led many fans to criticize its suitability for a funeral. Some found
it disrespectful, given Carter’s strong faith, while others defended it, noting it
was one of Carter’s favorite songs. Brooks and Yearwood had previously worked closely
with Carter, particularly through Habitat for Humanity, and chose the song to honor
his legacy. Carter had often spoken about his appreciation for
“Imagine” and its global impact, including its widespread use in countries like Cuba
