Remembering President Jeffrey R. Holland: A Legacy of Faith and Leadership

President Jeffrey R. Holland, a prominent leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, passed away on December 27, 2025, at the age of 85 due to complications from kidney disease. His funeral was held on December 31, 2025, at the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, presided over by President Dallin H. Oaks. The service was attended by family, church leaders, and members of the public, reflecting on Holland's significant impact on the church and its followers.

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During the funeral, President Oaks highlighted Holland's profound influence, recalling a missionary's memory of Holland as a teacher who instilled feelings of love and truth in his students. Elder Matthew S. Holland, one of the deceased's sons, described his father as "an irresistible force for righteousness," emphasizing his ability to connect with people and his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He noted that despite facing severe health challenges, Holland remained committed to uplifting others, demonstrating a master class in discipleship.

President Holland Remembered as a Teacher, Father, Apostle of Love and Hope

Holland's daughter, Mary Alice McCann, shared that her father's passion for the gospel was deeply ingrained in their family, stating, "He burned it into our souls." She characterized him as "an Apostle of hope," emphasizing his belief in the redemptive power of Jesus Christ and his dedication to helping those in need.

President Holland Remembered as a Teacher, Father, Apostle of Love and Hope

President Oaks, reflecting on Holland's legacy, remarked on the outpouring of love and respect from the community, stating, "Yes, Sister, he still is," in response to a comment about Holland's lasting impact. He concluded with a testimony of Jesus Christ, affirming the faith that Holland exemplified throughout his life.

President Holland Remembered as a Teacher, Father, Apostle of Love and Hope

Holland's tenure was not without controversy. He drew national attention in 2021 for his remarks advocating for traditional marriage, which sparked protests and criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. His speech, known as the "musket fire speech," became a focal point of debate within and outside the church, illustrating the complexities of his leadership and the challenges faced by the church in contemporary society.

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Following Holland's death, a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has emerged, which President Oaks will fill in the coming months. The church's succession plan traditionally involves appointing a new apostle from lower-tier leadership councils, maintaining the all-male priesthood structure.

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• “My father was an irresistible force for righteousness.” — Elder Matthew S. Holland, General Authority Seventy

President Holland Remembered as a Teacher, Father, Apostle of Love and Hope

• “He believed in the redemption of Jesus Christ and that through Him and because of Him all things would be made right — if not today, tomorrow; if not tomorrow, next month or next year; and if not in this life, then in the next.” — Mary Alice McCann, Daughter

President Holland Remembered as a Teacher, Father, Apostle of Love and Hope

• “ "Over the last three decades as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he lifted the weary, encouraged the faithful and bore a powerful witness of the Savior — even through seasons of significant personal trials," Oaks said.” — President Dallin H. Oaks

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President Jeffrey R. Holland's legacy as a leader, teacher, and father continues to resonate within the church community, reflecting a life dedicated to faith, education, and service.

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