Russell M. Nelson was one of the most influential religious leaders of the modern era. His journey from a world-renowned heart surgeon to the 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a story of dedication and service. Millions across the globe knew him not just as a spiritual leader but also as a visionary who guided his church into the 21st century. His life reflected a rare blend of professional excellence and spiritual devotion that left a lasting legacy. In this article, we will explore his Russell M Nelson Age, early life, education, family, career, and much more.
Biography of Russell M. Nelson
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Russell Marion Nelson |
| Date of Birth | September 9, 1924 |
| Place of Birth | Salt Lake City, Utah, United States |
| Date of Death | September 27, 2025 |
| Russell M Nelson Age at Death | 101 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Religious Leader |
| Education | M.D. – University of Utah, Ph.D. – University of Minnesota |
| Religious Title | 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints |
| Years of Presidency | 2018 – 2025 |
| First Wife | Dantzel White (m. 1945 – d. 2005) |
| Second Wife | Wendy L. Watson (m. 2006 – 2025) |
| Children | 10 children |
| Grandchildren | 57 |
| Known For | Oldest-ever LDS President, Pioneer in Heart Surgery, Global Church Leadership |
| Net Worth (Est.) | $1 million – $5 million (from medical career and personal investments) |
Who is Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson was born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He became a successful cardiothoracic surgeon before devoting his life to full-time religious service. In 1984, he was called as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On January 14, 2018, he was set apart as the 17th President of the Church. Under his leadership, the church expanded globally with new temples, digital outreach, and increased humanitarian efforts. He passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101, making him the oldest-ever LDS President.
Early Life of Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson grew up in Salt Lake City during the Great Depression. His early years shaped his strong work ethic and discipline. He worked hard in school and excelled academically, which later laid the foundation for his medical career. Even as a child, Nelson showed curiosity and determination that guided him throughout his life.
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Education
Russell M. Nelson pursued higher education with outstanding success. He earned a Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the University of Utah in 1947. His thirst for knowledge did not stop there. He later obtained a Ph.D. in Surgery from the University of Minnesota. Nelson also spent time at Harvard Medical School to refine his surgical expertise. His education made him one of the most respected cardiac surgeons in the world.
Family of Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson valued family deeply and often spoke about its eternal importance. He married Dantzel White in 1945, and together they had ten children. After Dantzel’s passing in 2005, Nelson married Wendy L. Watson, a professor at Brigham Young University, in 2006. Nelson’s family included 57 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, making family gatherings a significant part of his life.
Russell M Nelson Age
Russell M. Nelson lived an exceptionally long life. Born in 1924, he reached the remarkable age of 101 years before his passing in 2025. His longevity was often attributed to his disciplined lifestyle, faith, and dedication to health. Even in his later years, he remained active in guiding the church and participating in important religious events worldwide.
Net Worth of Russell M. Nelson
As a leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell M. Nelson was not paid like a corporate executive. His personal wealth came largely from his medical career, which was long and distinguished. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, estimates suggest his net worth ranged from $1 million to $5 million. His focus was not on personal financial gain but rather on spiritual service and uplifting communities.
Relationship and Marriage
Russell M. Nelson’s relationships reflected his devotion to faith and family. His first wife, Dantzel White, was a supportive partner during his demanding medical and church career. After her death, Nelson remarried Wendy L. Watson, who remained by his side during his presidency. His marriages highlighted his belief in love, partnership, and the eternal nature of families.
Current Affairs and Leadership
During his presidency, Russell M. Nelson emphasized global outreach, modern communication, and temple expansion. He encouraged members to use technology to spread positive messages and faith-based teachings. His leadership also focused on humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and improving the global image of the church. Under his direction, the church launched new initiatives for youth, expanded worldwide programs, and strengthened its identity as a global faith.
Even in his later years, Nelson continued to travel, meet members worldwide, and address social issues with compassion and wisdom. His guidance during times of global uncertainty, including the COVID-19 pandemic, showed his ability to adapt faith principles to modern challenges.
Career of Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson’s career was divided into two extraordinary paths—medicine and religion. As a world-renowned surgeon, he was part of the team that developed the first successful open-heart surgery using a heart-lung machine. He performed thousands of surgeries and trained future doctors, leaving a remarkable medical legacy.
In 1984, Nelson began his full-time religious service as an Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His career in church leadership spanned decades, during which he visited over 130 nations. His presidency beginning in 2018 marked a new era of modernization, growth, and international unity for the church.
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Physical Appearance of Russell M. Nelson
| Feature | Details |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Weight | Around 85 kg (187 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Gray/White |
| Body Type | Slim and Fit |
Social Media Presence
While Russell M. Nelson himself was not personally active on social media, his official presence was well-managed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His teachings, speeches, and messages were widely shared on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X through official church accounts. Millions of followers engaged with his talks, humanitarian updates, and spiritual counsel online. His ability to reach a global audience through digital platforms helped him connect with younger generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Russell M. Nelson when he died?
Russell M. Nelson passed away at the age of 101 on September 27, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Was Russell M. Nelson the oldest president of the LDS Church?
Yes, he was the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the time of his death.
When was Russell M. Nelson born?
He was born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah, during the era of the Great Depression.
How long did Russell M. Nelson serve as church president?
He served from January 2018 until September 2025, leading the church for more than seven years.
Conclusion
Russell M Nelson Age is 101 year at the time of death. Russell M. Nelson lived a life of service, dedication, and inspiration. From being a pioneering heart surgeon to becoming the 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his journey was extraordinary. His faith, leadership, and humanitarian efforts touched millions of lives worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire church members and non-members alike.
Russell M. Nelson proved that with faith, discipline, and service, one can impact both the physical and spiritual lives of countless people. His story will be remembered for generations as a testament to true leadership and devotion.
