SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died Saturday night at the age of 101, church officials announced.
Nelson died at his home in Salt Lake City, church spokesperson Candice Madsen said in a statement.
A former heart surgeon, Nelson spent over four decades in the highest levels of church leadership after joining the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984. He became church president in January 2018 following the death of Thomas S. Monson and in 2024 became the first president of the faith to reach 100 years of age.
Nelson was renowned not only for his spiritual leadership but also for his medical career, including pioneering work in heart surgery and cardiovascular research. He authored numerous medical articles before dedicating himself fully to church service.
The next president of the faith, commonly known as the Mormon church, has not yet been named but is expected to be Dallin H. Oaks, the next longest-tenured member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, following church protocol.
Senator Mike Lee of Utah posted a warm tribute shortly after the announcement:
“For as long as I’ve known him, he has exuded — and for me, he’s come to personify — the kind of faith, humility, and quiet confidence that tends to be the constant companion of a devoted servant and follower of Jesus Christ.”
Transformative Leadership and Major Changes
Nelson’s tenure was marked by significant changes and a transformative vision. In 2018, he called on members to stop using shorthand names such as “Mormon” and “LDS,” urging the full use of the church’s official name — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For more on church history and doctrine, visit study materials here.
In 2019, Nelson repealed controversial 2015 policies that banned baptisms for children of LGBTQ+ parents and labeled same-sex couples as sinners eligible for church discipline. Although his administration was viewed as more welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals, the church’s stance on same-sex marriage remained unchanged.
Additionally, Nelson’s leadership introduced stricter rules limiting participation of members who pursue gender-affirming medical procedures or change their names, pronouns, or appearance, drawing criticism for marginalizing transgender members.
Explore more study materials for better and Bright future.