Three U.S. presidents will attend and speak at the funeral for former Georgia governor and U.S. senator Zell Miller, a spokesperson for the family confirmed Monday.
Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush are attending the Tuesday funeral which is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Miller's body then be taken to the Georgia State Capitol.
The events follow Monday's visitation at Young Harris College which, in itself, drew a sizable crowd for one of its most well-known politicians. Miller graduated from the college in 1951 before enlisting in the Marines.
Speakers on Monday included Rev. David Tinsley Sharp of Memorial United Methodist Church; former Miller campaign consultant Paul Begala; and former chief of staff Steve Wrigley.
Meanwhile, two of the three presidential speakers for Miller's funeral service have already issued statements on his passing. Through the Carter Center, President Carter described as a public servant who "left our state with a legacy that is highlighted by the Hope Scholarships that provide education for our young students."
"I began public service in the state senate with Zell in 1963, and we served together as trustees of Mercer University during this past year," Carter added. "He was a good friend, and Rosalynn and I join all Georgians in extending our condolences to Shirley and their family."
Bush also released a statement shortly after the announcement that Miller had died.
"Laura and I are saddened to learn that a great patriot has passed away. Zell Miller deeply loved his family and his country, and he served both faithfully throughout his remarkable life," President Bush said. "He was an example of service before self, country before party, principle before poll."
He added that Miller's "strong spirit benefited the people of Georgia and the United States."
"Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Zell’s beloved wife, Shirley, and the entire Miller family as they mourn the loss of a good man," he said.
Both the Peachtree Road United Methodist Church service on Tuesday and the Georgia State Capitol funeral on Wednesday will be held at 11 a.m.
