The oldest serving president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell M. Nelson, died on Saturday night in his Salt Lake City home at age 101, church officials announced.
In a statement announcing his death, the church said Nelson is survived by his wife, Wendy, eight of his 10 children, 57 grandchildren and more than 167 great-grandchildren.
Nelson was first called as an Apostle on April 7, 1984. Over three decades later, he became the president of the church on Jan. 14, 2018.
Since becoming leader at age 93, officials say that Nelson — who previously worked as a heart surgeon — was “a man who changed the church” through significant policy changes.
“His time as prophet will forever be remembered as one of global ministry (he visited 32 countries and U.S. territories), increased temple construction (he announced 200 new temples) and profound change,” the church stated.
Under his leadership, the church says, Nelson “adjusted the way Saints around the world minister to each other.” The president was revered for his emphasis on addressing the church by its full name, stressing the importance of including Jesus Christ’s name in all mentions. “It is his church,” Nelson said.
Officials said that a successor is not expected to be formally chosen until after Nelson’s funeral.
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