Russell M. Nelson , the oldest president in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on Saturday in Salt Lake City. He was 101.

The church said in a statement that he passed away peacefully at his home shortly after 10 pm.

“His time as prophet will forever be remembered as one of global ministry… increased temple construction… and profound change,” the statement said.

Read more : Russell M. Nelson: We All Deserve Dignity and Respect

Dr. Nelson, a respected heart surgeon before joining the church full-time, was credited with implementing sweeping changes to the church during his tenure as president.

He softened some of the church's policies on LGBT members, allowing children of LGBT parents to be baptized and rolling back a policy that labeled same-s

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