President Russell Marion Nelson, the 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully at his home in Salt Lake City, Utah, on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101. As both a pioneering heart surgeon and a prophet revered by millions, his century-long life left an indelible mark on medicine, faith, and global spiritual leadership.
Early Life and Medical Career
Born September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Nelson’s early life was marked by academic excellence and devotion to learning. He earned a degree in medicine and soon rose to become a world-renowned cardiac surgeon.
Key Medical Contributions
Among the first to perform open-heart surgery in Utah.
Contributed to the development of the heart-lung machine.
Trained and mentored countless physicians during his academic career.
His medical reputation earned him respect worldwide before he dedicated his full efforts to church service.
Church Service and Apostleship
In 1984, Russell M. Nelson was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, where he served faithfully for over three decades. His talks and writings often emphasized faith in Jesus Christ, personal revelation, and eternal family relationships.
On January 14, 2018, following the passing of President Thomas S. Monson, Nelson became the 17th President of the LDS Church. His presidency would span more than seven years, making him the oldest president in the church’s history.
Defining Themes of His Presidency
President Nelson’s leadership was marked by urgency, energy, and transformative initiatives, despite his advanced age.
1. Centering on the Name of the Church
He strongly emphasized using the full name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, moving away from terms like “Mormon” or “LDS.”
2. Temple Expansion
Under his leadership, the Church announced dozens of new temples worldwide, bringing temple blessings closer to millions of members.
3. Global Outreach
He traveled extensively in his early presidency, meeting with Saints across continents and reinforcing the Church’s worldwide mission.
4. Guidance Through Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, his recorded messages of hope and gratitude—such as his call to practice gratitude and faith during uncertainty—were deeply cherished.
The Final Chapter: Passing at Age 101
President Nelson’s death was announced late on September 27, 2025, after he “passed away peacefully” at his home in Salt Lake City. He was surrounded by family in his final moments.
At 101 years old, he was not only the oldest living prophet but also one of the longest-serving senior leaders in Church history.
Succession: What Happens Next
Following long-established church practice:
The First Presidency is dissolved upon the death of the President.
Leadership temporarily returns to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
The senior-most apostle by ordination is then sustained as the new Church President.
As of President Nelson’s passing, Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor in the First Presidency and senior apostle, is expected to succeed him, pending the formal sustaining and setting apart.
Quick Facts About President Russell M. Nelson
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Russell Marion Nelson |
| Birth | September 9, 1924 – Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Death | September 27, 2025 – Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Age | 101 years |
| Profession | Heart Surgeon, Medical Educator |
| Church Service | Apostle (1984), President (2018–2025) |
| Known For | Medical pioneering, temple expansion, Christ-centered reforms |
| Legacy | Faith, revelation, global outreach |
Tributes and Reactions
Members worldwide have begun mourning the passing of their prophet, expressing gratitude for his teachings and leadership. Leaders emphasized his unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ and his ability to combine medical brilliance with spiritual depth.
Church members often recall his counsel: “The Lord loves effort, because effort brings rewards that can’t come without it.”
FAQs
Q1: Did President Russell M. Nelson die?
Yes. He passed away on September 27, 2025, in Salt Lake City at age 101.
Q2: How did President Nelson die?
The Church announced he “passed away peacefully.” No further medical details have been released.
Q3: Who will succeed him?
By seniority, Dallin H. Oaks is expected to be the next President of the Church.
Q4: What was President Nelson’s greatest legacy?
His emphasis on Jesus Christ, his global temple expansion program, and his compassionate leadership during the pandemic.
Q5: When will funeral details be announced?
The Church will release official funeral arrangements soon.
Final Thoughts
President Russell M. Nelson lived a life of profound service. From pioneering heart surgeries to guiding millions as prophet, his journey reflected discipline, compassion, and devotion to God. His death at age 101 closes an extraordinary chapter in LDS history, but his teachings and example will inspire generations.
The faithful now look ahead with both mourning and hope, trusting in the seamless leadership transition that defines The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
