In a poignant farewell that stirred hearts across southern Utah, President Jeffrey R. Holland, a beloved leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was laid to rest in his cherished hometown of St. George on January 1, 2026. But here’s where it gets deeply moving: despite the rain, hundreds gathered along the procession route, not just to witness history but to honor a man whose life was intertwined with the very landmarks they passed—the St. George Utah Temple, the Tabernacle, his childhood home, and the Centennial Commons at Utah Tech University, each a testament to his legacy. And this is the part most people miss: as the hearse moved forward, 250 missionaries from the Utah St. George Mission stood united before the temple, their voices rising in a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace. Mission President Nels Thorderson captured the sentiment, saying, “Our missionaries adore President Holland and cherish this chance to honor him, his family, and the gospel he devoted his life to.”
President Holland’s passing on December 27, 2023, at 85, marked the end of an era, but his influence endures. Funeral services held on December 31 in Salt Lake City’s Tabernacle on Temple Square drew a solemn gathering of Church leaders, family, and friends. Among them were President Dallin H. Oaks, President Henry B. Eyring, President D. Todd Christofferson, and several Apostles, each paying tribute to a man whose life was defined by “ancestral grit and unswerving commitment to serve the Lord.”
At the graveside service in St. George City Cemetery, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf offered the invocation, setting a tone of reverence. Mary Alice McCann, President Holland’s daughter, shared a touching reflection on her father’s roots: “As a boy, he roamed these red hills, played in the parks, and met a little girl named Patricia. His life of faith was built on the shoulders of those who came before him, and today, they surround us here.” Her words underscored the profound connection between President Holland’s personal history and the community he loved.
But here’s the controversial part: while many celebrate President Holland’s unwavering dedication to his faith, some might question the impact of such singular focus on other aspects of life. Did his commitment to the Church leave room for broader exploration of ideas, or was his legacy enriched precisely by this singular devotion? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
The interment service, conducted by his son David F. Holland, was followed by a grave dedication by Elder Matthew S. Holland, a General Authority Seventy. President Holland was laid to rest beside his wife, Patricia, who passed away in July 2023, a poignant reminder of their lifelong partnership.
For Jay and Kari Manning, who traveled from Sandia Park, New Mexico, to witness the procession, the occasion was deeply personal. “We love him and are grateful for his teachings,” Kari shared. Jay, reflecting on President Holland’s influence, added, “His principles shaped my life, especially as I served in the Church. He’s a legend in my mind.”
Brent Lee, a St. George resident, summed up the sentiment of many: “Being here feels like an emotional connection to President Holland and his family. It’s the least we can do to honor him.”
As the community bid farewell, one thing was clear: President Jeffrey R. Holland’s legacy is not just in the landmarks that bear his name, but in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. What does his life and service mean to you? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear how his teachings have impacted your journey.
