The passing of President Jeffrey R. Holland has left a profound impact on many, and his final farewell took place in the cherished environment of his hometown. On January 1, 2026, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made the journey to southern Utah to honor their esteemed colleague and leader, President Holland, who held the distinguished role of President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
In a show of respect and love, despite the inclement weather, hundreds lined the streets leading to the cemetery, passing by significant locations that were dear to President Holland and his family. These included the St. George Utah Temple, the St. George Tabernacle, his childhood residence, and the Jeffrey R. Holland Centennial Commons located at Utah Tech University.
A touching moment occurred when around 250 missionaries from the Utah St. George Mission gathered at the temple to sing "Amazing Grace" as the hearse made its way past them. President Nels Thorderson of the mission expressed, "Our missionaries hold [President Holland] in great affection and appreciate this chance to pay tribute to him, his family, and the gospel of Jesus Christ."
President Holland passed away on December 27 at the age of 85, and a memorial service was held on December 31 in the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Notable leaders who attended the graveside service included President Dallin H. Oaks and his wife Kristen, President Henry B. Eyring, President D. Todd Christofferson and his spouse Katherine, along with Elders Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Quentin L. Cook, Neil L. Anderson, Gary E. Stevenson, and Patrick Kearon, all accompanied by their wives, family members, and friends.
During the graveside service, Elder Uchtdorf offered the invocation, followed by heartfelt remarks from Mary Alice McCann, President Holland’s daughter. She reminisced about her father's youthful days spent exploring the picturesque red hills and playing sports in local parks. "He met a little girl named Patricia, which marked the beginning of his lifelong journey of gospel study and faith, supported by the family members who came before him and now surround us here in this cemetery," she reflected.
Mary Alice emphasized that "the ancestral grit and dedication ran deep in the veins of Jeffrey R. Holland," highlighting his unwavering commitment to serving the Lord and advancing His kingdom. The interment service was overseen by his son, David F. Holland, while Elder Matthew S. Holland, a General Authority Seventy, dedicated the grave where President Holland was laid to rest next to his late wife, Patricia, who had passed away on July 20, 2023.
Among those who witnessed the procession were Jay and Kari Manning, visiting from Sandia Park, New Mexico, who felt compelled to be part of this significant event during their holiday visit. Kari said, "We love him and are thankful for everything he accomplished, so we wanted to partake in this moment." Jay added, "The principles he taught about the gospel of Jesus Christ profoundly influenced my life, guiding me as I served as a bishop and held other positions in the Church. To me, he is legendary, and I deeply appreciate the person he became and the teachings he shared."
Local resident Brent Lee shared his sentiments, stating, "We’re just thrilled to participate in this tribute. It creates a personal emotional connection to [President Holland] and his family. Paying our respects is the least we can do during this poignant time."
As we reflect on the legacy left by President Holland, what lessons or values from his life resonate most with you? How do you think his teachings will continue to affect future generations?
