UPDATED 7/5/2015
Boyd K. Packer, leader of the Mormon faith’s highest governing body, has died. Packer was the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was next in line to become President of the Church. Packer served in World War Two as a bomber pilot and was appointed a member of the Quorum of the Twelve in 1970.
Church officials have announced that Packer’s funeral will be held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square on Friday July 10 beginning at 11 a.m. The service will be open to the public, but Church officials ask that only those 8 years and older attend. A burial service is planned in Brigham City following the funeral.
Quorum member Russell M. Nelson, 90, is now in line to succeed President Thomas Monson. Packer is the second member of the Quorum of the Twelve to die in more than a month. L. Tom Perry died of cancer on May 30.
Boyd K. Packer became known as a fearless defender of the gospel and master teacher of church principles during the more than four decades he served on the quorum, according to a statement from the Church. Packer was an advocate for the conservative ideals of Mormonism. In a 1993, speech he warned that his religion faced what he called the greatest threat from three groups: feminists, homosexuals and intellectuals.
Utah Governor Gary Herbert said in a statement that Packer was "unwavering in his devotion to his faith and the principles by which he lived his life.'' Herbert added that Packer's "strength and love were felt by church members throughout the world.”
Packer died at his home in Salt Lake City on Friday at the age 90. Church President Thomas Monson will appoint replacements for Packer and L. Tom Perry in the coming months.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.