Russell M. Nelson, 17th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dies at 101

September 28, 2025
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By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News | Photo Courtesy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced late Saturday evening that Russell M. Nelson, the 17th president of the church, had passed away at 101 years old.

“With sorrow we announce that Russell M. Nelson, beloved President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully shortly after 10 p.m. MDT today at his home in Salt Lake City,” reads a statement from the church. “ He was 101 – the oldest president in the history of the Church.”

Nelson began his work in church leadership in 1984 when he was selected as an apostle within the church. In 2018, he was chosen as the 17th president of the church.

“Few lives have been lived as fully and faithfully as that of President Russell M. Nelson. His remarkable 101 years were a testament to service, faith, and vision. I am grateful for the insight, inspiration, and teachings he shared so generously,” said Sen. John Curtis. “As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life that lifted countless people and left an enduring legacy of hope and strength.”

Before his time in church leadership, Nelson served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during the Korean War. Following his time in the military, Nelson accepted a position at the University of Utah School of Medicine.

During his time at the University of Utah, Nelson was a pioneer in many medical techniques, including performing the first open-heart surgery west of the Mississippi River in 1955.

During his tenure as president, Nelson spearheaded several organizational changes within the church, including shortening the length of church services from three to two hours and reversing a church policy that classified same-sex marriage couples as apostates.

While president, Nelson announced 200 new temples across the globe, including the planned Price, Utah temple.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox also shared his condolences,” Today we mourn the passing of President Russell M. Nelson — a prophet of God, a gentle leader, and a voice for peacemaking. He built bridges across faith traditions and cultures, serving God’s children throughout the world. Abby and I will forever treasure our moments with him.”

According to the church,” A successor is not expected to be formally chosen by the Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles until after President Nelson’s funeral.”

The cause of death for Nelson has not been released.

*This is a breaking story and may be updated.

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