Gov. Spencer Cox declares ‘Russell M. Nelson Day’ for Church leader’s birthday

SALT LAKE CITY ( ABC4 ) — In celebration of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President’s centenarian birthday, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, “President Russell M. Nelson Day” in Utah.

Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Gov. Cox called Nelson a “lifelong Utahn.” Nelson graduated from East High School before receiving degrees from the University of Utah.

He served as a surgeon at the University of Minnesota Hospitals and Massachusetts General Hospital before serving in the United States military during the Korean War. At 32, Nelson performed the first open-heart surgery in Utah.

Nelson also served the Church in various capacities and callings before he was called to serve as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in April 1984.

“President Nelson is a leader not only in Utah but across the world. He has worked tirelessly to build bridges of understanding and kindness and has led a life full of family, faith, and selfless service,” Cox said in a statement. “It is an honor to commemorate his 100th birthday and we are grateful for the goodness he brings to the world each and every day.”

The full declaration can be found below:

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