Post-presidency of Gerald Ford Post-presidency of Gerald Ford Gerald Ford was the 38th President of the United States, serving from 1974 to 1977. After his tenure's end, Ford was active in the public sphere, traveling, writing a memoir, and voicing his opinion about contemporary issues within the United States and abroad. The Nixon pardon controversy eventually subsided. Ford's successor, Jimmy Carter, opened his 1977 inaugural address by praising the outgoing President, saying, "For myself and for our Nation, I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land." After leaving the White House, the Fords moved to Denver, Colorado.
Death and state funeral of Gerald Ford the U.S. Coast Guard Band played "Hail to the Chief" and "Nearer, My God, to Thee". The service in the National Cathedral was officially entitled, "In Celebration of and Thanksgiving for the Life of GERALD RUDOLPH FORD, 1913-2006." Service music was provided by the cathedral organists; the United States Marine Orchestra (COL Michael Colburn, Conductor); Armed Forces Chorus (LTC John Clanton, Conductor); Cathedral Choirs of Men, Boys and Girls; and opera soloist Denyce Graves. The congregation sang the hymn, "For All the Saints". All selections had been chosen by President and Mrs. Ford while planning the service. Musical selections chosen