President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints poses for a photo in his office in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, March 13, 2018.
SALT LAKE CITY — Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have announced the death of President M. Russell Ballard, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. After a recent brief hospital stay, he returned to his home where he attended to duties as he was able to before passing away at approximately 11:15 p.m. November 12, 2023 surrounded by loved ones. He was 95.
In a Monday morning press release, Church President Russell M. Nelson said, “President Ballard was never indecisive. He knew exactly what the Lord taught and how it could be applied in one’s personal life and bring joy and happiness.”
President Ballard became an Apostle on October 6, 1985. He was announced as Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on January 16, 2018.
In his final general conference address given on October 1, 2023, President Ballard spoke of the Prophet Joseph Smith and of his central role in restoring The Church. During the 13 minute address, given without any script or teleprompter, he expressed gratitude for the years and experiences he had as a general authority.
“But for nearly 50 years, brothers and sisters, I’ve had the privilege to cover the world in my assignment as a General Authority of the Church,” President Ballard said. “It’s been a wonderful blessing.”
President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency, who sat beside President Ballard in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for more than three decades said, “We worked together closely, and I always loved his warm manner. He was a man to be trusted. And he was a man who trusted you.”
President Ballard is survived by his seven children, 43 grandchildren 105 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Funeral details are pending.