Jeffrey R. Holland, member of the quorum of the twelve apostles, speaks during a news conference at the Conference Center, in Salt Lake City, Jan. 27, 2015.
Rick Bowmer/AP
hide caption
toggle caption
Rick Bowmer/AP
SALT LAKE CITY — Jeffrey R. Holland, a prominent leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who was poised to become the next president, has passed away at the age of 85.
Holland passed away early Saturday morning due to complications related to kidney disease, as announced by the church on its website.
He was a key figure in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, responsible for shaping church policies and overseeing the business interests of the Mormon church.
As one of the longest-serving members of the Quorum of the Twelve, Holland was next in line to lead the church according to the established succession plan.
Henry B. Eyring, a top counselor to Oaks, is now positioned to succeed as the next president of the church.
Holland’s recent hospitalization over the Christmas period was a result of ongoing health issues, leading to speculations about his health when he was not chosen as a counselor in October.
With Holland’s passing, Oaks will appoint a new apostle to fill the vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve in the near future.
Holland, originally from St. George, Utah, had a background in education administration before joining the church’s leadership. He served as the president of Brigham Young University and played a significant role in improving interfaith relations and establishing a campus in Jerusalem.
Oaks, reminiscing on his long-standing friendship with Holland, praised his dedication and service to the church over the past three decades.
Known for his powerful speeches, Holland addressed important issues within the church, including mental health and the church’s stance on same-sex marriage.
His legacy will be remembered by his family, including his wife, three children, 13 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.
