WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Public services for former president Jimmy Carter will begin Tuesday in Washington, D.C.

Ahead of Carter’s state funeral Thursday the public will have two days to pay their respects to the former president in a city he called home for four years during his presidency.

“Great for him to be able to be here and for us to give honor for the service that he provided for our country,” said Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kan.).

Kansas Congressman Ron Estes has a personal connection to Carter. 

“My wife, Susan, her grandmother, was a cousin for Lillian Carter, who was President Carter’s grandmother,” said Estes.

Over the weekend services were held for the former president.

Carter will lie in state in the Capitol rotunda on Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday all five living U.S. presidents are expected to attend his state funeral at the National Cathedral. 

“It’s a very, very sad moment, but also a moment for inspiration,” said Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.).

Colorado Congressman Jason Crow says Carter inspired his service to the country. 

“President Carter is an inspiration to me. And when you think about servant leadership, which is a mantra that I learned in the Army, President Carter embodies that in so many ways,” said Crow.

There will be a private arrival ceremony on Tuesday afternoon with Carter’s family and members of Congress.