(KSL News) Officials with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced this evening that Church President Gordon B. Hinckley has passed away.
He passed away at his home about 7 o'clock this evening with his family was at his side. President Hinckley was 97 years old. He was the 15th president of the church.
Born in Salt Lake City on June 23, 1910; he graduated from the University of Utah and served a mission to Great Britain. After he returned, he embarked on a lifetime of service for the church.
He was employed as the executive secretary of the Church Radio, Publicity, and Literature committee, before he was called to be an Apostle in 1961.
He was later called to serve as a counselor to President Kimball, President Benson and President Hunter.
Since becoming church President on Mar. 12, 1995, he has directed the most intense temple building program in the history of the church in an effort to extend temple blessings to more members.
He has exhibited vitality and energy as he has traveled about the world meeting and speaking to members of the church.
Through television interviews and national press publications, he has increased media attention and improved the public image of the church. He has counseled church members to fellowship new converts, befriend members of other faiths, live exemplary lives, and avoid the evils of the world.