Honoring a Legacy: Jeffrey R. Holland Laid to Rest in St. George
In a heartfelt farewell, Jeffrey R. Holland, a prominent leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was laid to rest in his beloved hometown of St. George, Utah, on January 1, 2026. The occasion was marked by a profound sense of community and remembrance, as a significant number of residents and church members gathered to honor his impactful life and legacy.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Jeffrey R. Holland was born on December 3, 1940, in St. George, and dedicated much of his life to education and church service. He held numerous influential positions, including President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and President of Brigham Young University (BYU). His commitment to faith and education left a lasting impression on many, as highlighted in his memorial from the church.
Funeral Procession and Community Support
Despite inclement weather, hundreds of people lined the streets to pay their respects as the funeral procession made its way to the St. George City Cemetery. The route passed by several landmarks intimately connected to Holland’s life, including the St. George Utah Temple and his childhood home. This display of community spirit was a testament to the love and admiration many held for him.
Memorable Ceremonies
The funeral service, held on December 31, 2025, at the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, was attended by numerous church leaders and friends. The emotional moment was accentuated by a performance from about 250 missionaries from the Utah St. George Mission, who sang “Amazing Grace” as the hearse passed by, further underscoring the profound impact Holland had on so many lives.
Final Resting Place
During the graveside service, Holland was interred beside his wife, Patricia, who passed away in 2023. The service was conducted by his son, David F. Holland, with Elder Matthew S. Holland dedicating the grave. This intimate connection to family and faith resonated deeply with those gathered, many of whom shared personal stories of how Holland had influenced their lives.
Legacy of Influence
Holland’s contributions to both the church and society were vast, including authorship of 14 books and leadership roles in various educational and healthcare organizations. His final talk during the General Conference in October 2025 emphasized the importance of the Book of Mormon in affirming gospel truths, a message that will continue to inspire future generations.
The legacy of Jeffrey R. Holland will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many, both in St. George and beyond. His commitment to service, education, and faith will serve as a guiding light for those who seek to follow in his footsteps.
