On Feb. 21, 2018, one event made headlines worldwide: evangelist Billy Graham passed away at age 99. But the journey to Heaven was one he looked forward to his entire life.

In his book Facing Death and The Life After Billy Graham wrote, “A Christian funeral should be a coronation ceremony, a statement to the world about eternal life.” That’s exactly what the days following his death became—a celebration of the native North Carolinian and all he accomplished for the Kingdom of God.

Multiple services were held in his honor—Billy Graham’s private funeral took place in his hometown of Charlotte, in front of the Billy Graham Library. A more public service occurred before that, however, in Washington, D.C.

A special memorial service was held in the Rotunda, located in the U.S. Capitol building, on Feb. 28, 2018, attended by the Graham family, many political leaders from both parties, and other invited guests. Notable speakers included President Donald Trump, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

From Feb. 28-March 1, Billy Graham’s body, in a simple pine casket, Laid in Honor in the Rotunda. He was the fourth private citizen to receive this high honor; the prior honorees were a police officer and detective, both killed in the line of duty, and civil rights leader Rosa Parks. During this time, his casket was available for public viewing, giving the American people an opportunity to pay their respects. Thousands lined up over the course of these multiple days to honor the man who had dedicated his life to sharing the Good News of the Gospel.

Before memorial observances concluded and moved back to North Carolina, several members of the state’s congressional delegation presented the Graham family with the American flag that flew over the Capitol during Billy Graham’s time Lying in Honor.

After the services in the Capitol, Billy Graham’s casket was moved to Charlotte, where his final resting place is located on the grounds of the Billy Graham Library.

Visitors can see the flag from the U.S. Capitol during The Journey of Faith tour and also pay their respects at Billy Graham’s gravesite at the Billy Graham Library. Plan your visit today.