Russell M. Nelson Death and Obituary – Russell Marion Nelson, the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the age of 101. His death at his home in Salt Lake City, Utah, marks the end of a historic era of leadership and service within one of the world’s fastest-growing Christian faiths.
Before his full-time dedication to church service, Nelson built an extraordinary career as an internationally acclaimed heart surgeon and medical innovator. He earned recognition not only as a pioneer in the development of open-heart surgery techniques but also as a compassionate physician who placed the well-being of his patients above all else. His dual legacy as both a healer of bodies and a shepherd of souls uniquely shaped his ministry and influence.
Nelson was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in April 1984. Over the next three decades, he became known for his intellect, spiritual conviction, and emphasis on personal discipleship. His medical background and global perspective often informed his teachings and outreach, allowing him to connect with people across diverse cultures and circumstances.
In January 2018, following the death of Thomas S. Monson, Nelson became the president of the LDS Church. At the age of 93, he assumed leadership as one of the oldest men ever to take on the role, later becoming the church’s oldest serving president in history.
His presidency was marked by transformative decisions and sweeping initiatives that shaped the church for a new era. Among his most notable directives was a renewed insistence on using the full name of the church, emphasizing its foundation in Jesus Christ rather than nicknames such as “Mormon” or “LDS.”
Temple construction also accelerated under his leadership. Nelson announced and oversaw the planning of dozens of new temples worldwide, reflecting the church’s focus on global expansion and sacred worship. He introduced changes to the church’s youth programs, missionary structure, and religious instruction, aiming to strengthen families and increase spiritual engagement.
His tenure also included important and, at times, sensitive adjustments to church policies related to LGBTQ+ members, demonstrating his effort to balance doctrine with compassion and pastoral care.
At the time of his death, Nelson was widely regarded as a spiritual giant, whose emphasis on personal revelation and devotion to Jesus Christ touched millions of lives worldwide. In keeping with church protocol, his successor is expected to be Dallin H. Oaks, the First Counselor in the First Presidency and the longest-serving apostle after Nelson.
Russell M. Nelson’s passing closes a chapter of historic leadership, but his influence will continue to resonate through the millions of members he inspired. His legacy is one of dedication, service, and faith—a man who healed hearts in every sense of the word.
