Jeffrey R Holland, leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dies at 85

Known for his powerful sermons and passionate teachings within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he will be remembered for the love he shared with others as well as his love for Jesus Christ.

A statement from the church read, With heavy hearts, we announce that President Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died today at approximately 3:15 a.m. MST from complications associated with kidney disease, while surrounded by his family. He was 85.”

After Holland was called to the office of apostle in the church in 1994, he stated, “My total responsibility … is to bear witness of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

In addition to serving in the role of apostle, he was also the president of Brigham Young University, the commissioner of the Church Educational System, and dean of the BYU College of Religious Education. He received his Bachelor's of English as well as a Master of Religious Education at BYU. He also earned a master's and a Doctor of Philosophy in American studies at Yale.

Holland, as well as his late wife, Patricia, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in June 2023. Patricia died in July 2023. They have three children, 13 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

After his death, many church members shared quotes as well as clips from speeches from his general conference addresses in his memory.

Utah Senator Mike Lee shared the news of Holland's death and stated, "It is with deep gratitude for a life of service and sacrifice that Sharon and I mourn the passing of President Jeffrey R. Holland—a beloved leader, teacher, and unwavering witness of Jesus Christ. His powerful testimony, deep compassion, and tireless service blessed countless lives in Southern Utah, at BYU, throughout the United States, and around the world. May his family, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and all who mourn his passing find comfort in the Savior and His amazing grace, about which President Holland so eloquently and sincerely testified."

Holland’s death follows the recent death of President Russell M. Nelson, who was the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.