SALT LAKE CITY — The death of Russell M. Nelson has affected the lives of millions, including those of leaders both in Utah and worldwide.
Utah's Capitol Hill, where a majority of lawmakers are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reacted with tributes and condolences.
On Threads, Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson wrote:
Later on Sunday, FOX 13 News anchor Max Roth spoke with Mitt Romney, who discussed both Nelson's passing and the mass shooting at an LDS meetinghouse in Michigan that claimed four people's lives. It can be seen below.
In a statement to FOX 13 News, House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, wrote:
"A long life well lived. President Russell M. Nelson was a man of vision, faith, and service whose guidance blessed countless lives, including mine. I will always be grateful for his example of Christlike love and steady leadership. My prayers are with his family and all who feel this loss.”
Senate President J. Stuart Adams wrote:
“It is with deep respect and profound sadness that we honor the life and mourn the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, a man of faith, vision and compassion. As President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a distinguished physician, he was a tireless advocate for peace, unity and human dignity. He dedicated his life to healing, uplifting and uniting individuals and communities both in Utah and around the world with grace, conviction and compassion.
“President Nelson’s steady voice in uncertain times was a bridge between communities and a beacon of hope and clarity amid hardship and division. His teachings inspired millions and helped shape a more compassionate and hopeful world.
“My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with the Nelson family, members of the Church and all who were impacted by his extraordinary life. His legacy of grace, wisdom and goodness will continue to bless Utah and communities everywhere.”
The House Minority Caucus wrote:
“Today, members of the House Minority Caucus reflect on the life and legacy of President Russell M. Nelson. President Nelson, a respected leader and peacemaker, guided the Church through times of change and uncertainty with compassion and conviction. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and the millions of Latter-day Saints mourning his loss around the world.”
President Nelson helped save lives in medical field before the church:
Sen. Mike Lee posted on X:
Sen. John Curtis posted:
Congressman Blake Moore wrote:
Family shares role Nelson cherished most was that of father:
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall issued this statement:
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson also reacted to Nelson's passing, along with sharing her condolences for the shooting at an LDS Church meetinghouse in Michigan that happened Sunday:
“My thoughts are with all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today. In addition to the death of President Russell M. Nelson, after decades of a life dedicated to his religion and to medical health, members and others are hurting because of the violence that occurred in Michigan this morning. Sharing comfort, peace, and love to everyone at this time of deep sadness.”
Leaders from other faiths have also shared their condolences and well-wishes.
The United Jewish Federation of Utah said in part: "His remarkable life was defined by compassion, faith, and a steadfast commitment to guiding his community with wisdom and dignity. President Nelson’s legacy will be remembered as one of vision and hope, a life that strengthened not only his church but touched countless others with his example of kindness and service."
Rajan Zed, the president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, added:
"A leader with kinder and gentler approach; highly influential Nelson was instrumental in leading the Church towards enhanced humanitarian aid, expanding community service projects, forging partnerships, fostering collaboration and mutual respect among religions/denominations, guiding the church through the COVID-19 pandemic with messages of hope and spiritual strength, humanitarian outreach, increasing the church’s international disaster response, prioritizing humanitarian aid, promoting interfaith dialogue, wide-ranging reforms, etc."
Utah Republican Party Chair Rob Axson said in a statement to FOX 13 News:
“The Utah Republican Party joins others all around the world to honor the life and ministry of President Russell M. Nelson. His steadfast faith in Jesus Christ and his call to love and serve one another lifted Utah and inspired the world. As a skilled healer and a prophet, he worked to mend both bodies and hearts, always urging us to let God prevail in our lives. His message of faith and devotion will continue to bless families, strengthen Utah, and encourage healing in our nation.”
Utah Democratic Party Chair Brian King told FOX 13 News in a text message:
"I am saddened by the death of Russell M. Nelson. When he was called as an apostle in 1984, I distinctly recall how impressed I was with his background. How wonderful and appropriate it was that this man who had saved so many lives as a heart surgeon would be working to save lives spiritually. I loved how President Nelson spoke consistently and eloquently about how we can move forward for the better not just individually, but as communities, a state, and a country. He consistently advocated for being peacemakers, caring for the less fortunate, looking for opportunities to serve others, and acting for the common good. I’ll miss his warm smile, his genuine concern for others, his effective mix of humor and directness in his addresses. The world has truly lost a spiritual giant. I’m grateful we all had a chance to learn from his teachings and example."
