President Russell M. Nelson Cause of Death: What We Know

President Russell M. Nelson, the 17th president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the age of 101 in Salt Lake City. The Church confirmed his passing in an official statement but did not specify the exact cause of death.

The news marks the end of an era for Latter-day Saints worldwide. Nelson, a pioneering heart surgeon turned global faith leader, guided the Church through historic policy shifts, rapid temple construction, and a modern digital transformation during his presidency.

Official Statements on President Russell M. Nelson’s Passing

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced President Nelson’s death late Saturday. The statement noted he died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, but did not release a medical explanation. Leaders including President Dallin H. Oaks and President Henry B. Eyring were with him during his final days.

Nelson, born in 1924 in Salt Lake City, was celebrated as a world-renowned cardiac surgeon before joining the Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984. He later became Church president on January 14, 2018. During his nearly eight years of leadership, he emphasized faith in Jesus Christ, family-centered worship, and expanding access to temples. His death leaves millions of members mourning a beloved prophet and visionary leader.

Major news outlets such as Reuters, Associated Press, and BBC News confirmed the Church’s announcement but also noted the absence of an official cause of death. It is common for the Church to announce the passing of its prophet without releasing detailed medical information, especially when the leader was of advanced age.

Impact of President Nelson’s Death on the Church

President Nelson’s passing signals a transition in leadership for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. According to Church protocol, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, led by President Dallin H. Oaks as the most senior apostle, will guide the Church until a new president is formally sustained.

Nelson’s ministry was marked by decisive policy updates, including changes to temple worship practices, adjustments to meeting schedules, and expanded roles for women and youth in sacred ordinances. His efforts to accelerate temple construction — announcing 185 new temples during his tenure — reshaped the global presence of the faith. Members are now looking to Church leadership for guidance on the future while celebrating his legacy of faith and innovation.

At this time, the Church has not publicly disclosed the medical cause of death for President Russell M. Nelson. All official statements confirm only that he passed away peacefully at age 101. Any future updates on the cause will likely come directly from the Church or his family.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was President Russell M. Nelson’s cause of death?

The Church confirmed his passing but did not release an official cause of death as of September 28, 2025.

Q2: How old was President Nelson when he died?

He was 101 years old at the time of his death on September 27, 2025.

Q3: Who will lead the Church now?

By tradition, President Dallin H. Oaks, as the most senior apostle, will lead until a new president is sustained.

Q4: What were President Nelson’s major contributions?

He modernized the Church, emphasized temple work, expanded global outreach, and led during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Q5: Will the Church release more details about his passing?

It’s unclear. The Church may choose not to share specific medical details out of respect for privacy.