Russell M. Nelson, Mormon Church Prophet and Renowned Surgeon, Dies at 101

Russell M. Nelson, the 17th President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died. He was 101 years old. The church confirmed his passing at his Salt Lake City home on Saturday.

His death marks the end of a transformative era for the global faith community. According to the New York Times, the church’s statement did not specify a cause of death.

A Life of Dual Callings: From Surgery to Spiritual Leadership

Before his church leadership, Nelson was a pioneering heart surgeon. He helped develop the first heart-lung machine used in open-heart surgery. At just 31, he performed Utah’s first successful open-heart procedure.

He left his medical career at age 59 for full-time church service. Nelson was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1985. He became the church’s president and prophet in 2018 at the age of 93.

Sweeping Reforms and a Global Vision

President Nelson’s tenure was marked by significant policy shifts. In 2018, he instructed members to stop using the term “Mormon.” He called it a “victory for Satan” to remove Jesus Christ’s name from the church’s title.

He also reversed a controversial 2015 policy on LGBTQ members. That policy had labeled same-sex couples “apostates.” It also barred their children from baptism until they were 18.

His leadership focused on global expansion and modernization. He dramatically accelerated the construction of temples worldwide. He also cut the standard Sunday church service from three hours to two.

Legacy of Discipline and Outreach

Nelson was known for his personal vigor and discipline well into old age. He maintained a strict health regimen, weighing himself daily. He was an avid skier and gardener into his 90s.

He also addressed social issues more directly than some predecessors. Under his guidance, the church forged a historic partnership with the NAACP. The church donated millions to the organization and diversified its leadership ranks.

His legacy is that of a modernizing prophet who guided a global faith through a period of profound change, leaving an indelible mark on its 17 million members.

Thought you’d like to know

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

The Church has not released an official cause of death. He passed away at his home in Salt Lake City at the age of 101.

How long was Russell M. Nelson the President of the LDS Church?

He served as the church’s president for six years. He was ordained in January 2018 at the age of 93.

What was President Nelson’s most controversial policy change?

He reversed a 2015 policy that labeled same-sex couples apostates. This change, announced in 2019, was significant for the church’s LGBTQ members and their families.

What was his professional background before leading the church?

He was a world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon. He was a pioneer in open-heart surgery and helped develop the heart-lung machine.

How many temples were built during his presidency?

He accelerated temple construction globally. The number of operating temples reached 194, with 170 more planned or under construction.

Trusted Sources

The New York Times, Deseret News, Associated Press, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Newsroom.