A Legacy of Faith and Service: President Russell M. Nelson Passes Away at 101

Salt Lake City, Utah – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and millions worldwide are mourning the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, the beloved 17th President of the Church, who died peacefully on Saturday, September 28, 2025, at his home in Salt Lake City. He was 101 years old.

President Nelson's death marks the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to God and humanity.

His passing was announced by the Church, prompting an outpouring of grief and gratitude for his profound leadership and unwavering devotion.

Born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Russell M. Nelson was a man of remarkable intellect and compassionate spirit. Before his call to full-time Church service, he achieved international acclaim as a pioneering heart surgeon, contributing significantly to medical science.

His academic and professional journey saw him earn degrees from the University of Utah and the University of Minnesota, and he was instrumental in developing the heart-lung machine and performing some of the earliest open-heart surgeries.

In 1984, Dr. Nelson was called to serve as an Apostle in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, dedicating his life to spreading the gospel across the globe.

For decades, he traveled extensively, teaching, testifying, and ministering to Church members and others in over 130 countries. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, often speaking to them in their native tongues, was a hallmark of his ministry.

On January 14, 2018, at the age of 93, he was set apart as the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

His presidency, though relatively short, was characterized by significant and impactful changes that sought to refine and strengthen the Church's focus on Jesus Christ and the core principles of the gospel.

Among his most notable initiatives was the clarion call to use the full, correct name of the Church: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He emphasized that dropping the name 'Jesus Christ' or using nicknames diminished the centrality of the Savior's role. He also introduced a pivotal shift to a 'home-centered, Church-supported' gospel learning model, empowering families to take greater responsibility for spiritual education within their homes.

President Nelson's tenure also saw an unprecedented acceleration in temple building, underscoring the eternal nature of covenants and family.

He dedicated and announced plans for dozens of new temples worldwide, making sacred ordinances more accessible to millions. His efforts to unify members and promote greater understanding and outreach to those of other faiths were also key components of his global ministry.

He often spoke of the joy found in serving God and others, and his messages were consistently imbued with hope, faith, and a deep love for the Lord.

His humility, even in his elevated position, endeared him to many.

The Church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will now convene to choose a new president, a process rooted in seniority and revelation, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership. While a new leader will soon be called, President Nelson's profound influence will undoubtedly resonate for generations.

He is survived by his 10 children, 57 grandchildren, 142 great-grandchildren, and many great-great-grandchildren, alongside countless members and admirers who will forever cherish his memory.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Church in the coming days. President Russell M. Nelson's life was a testament to his profound faith, tireless service, and unwavering commitment to the Lord and His children. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of faith, vision, and devotion will continue to inspire all who knew him and felt the power of his ministry.