Russell M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening at his home in Salt Lake City. He was 101 years old, making him the oldest president in the Church’s history.
A world-renowned heart surgeon before his call to full-time Church service, President Nelson devoted his life to healing hearts both physically and spiritually.
He became an Apostle in 1984 and was sustained as the 17th President of the Church on January 14, 2018. His seven years of leadership were marked by sweeping reforms, unprecedented global outreach, and a renewed focus on Jesus Christ.
Under his ministry, President Nelson traveled to 32 nations and U.S. territories, met with world leaders including Pope Francis, and announced the construction of 200 new temples worldwide. He introduced numerous changes in Church practice to help members strengthen their faith at home and minister more like the Savior.
“Those of us who served with Russell M. Nelson marveled not only at his accomplishments but at his extraordinary modesty and gentleness,” said President Dallin H. Oaks, his longtime colleague and First Counselor.
“He was the sweetest person you could ever hope to associate with, and he will always be remembered that way.”
Before his service as prophet, Nelson pioneered open-heart surgery in Utah, performed more than 7,000 operations, and contributed groundbreaking research to cardiovascular medicine. Fluent in 11 languages, he was also a respected teacher, mentor, and humanitarian.
President Nelson’s personal life was deeply rooted in faith and family. He and his first wife, Dantzel, raised 10 children together before her passing in 2005. In 2006, he married Wendy L. Watson, who has remained a devoted companion throughout his later ministry.
He is survived by Sister Nelson, eight children, 57 grandchildren, and more than 167 great-grandchildren.
A successor will be chosen by the Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles following President Nelson’s funeral. Plans for a special tribute broadcast and services will be announced in the coming days.
President Nelson leaves behind a legacy of compassion, conviction, and courage — a “beloved physician” who never tired of reminding the world that peace, hope, and joy are found in Jesus Christ.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
