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Elder L. Tom Perry Remembered, Honored During Funeral Service

Thousands gathered at Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City to remember the life of Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said that Elder Perry was larger than life and always made an impression wherever he went. He also looked back on the ways that Perry made everyone around him, including members of the Twelve, better.

“He always taught, encouraged, and inspired all of the general authorities that we could do more, we could do better, and we could move faster in blessing the lives of every member of the church.”

Perry served as an apostle, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ highest priesthood office, for more than 40 years before dying of cancer on May 30. Perry also served as a Marine during World War II and in many positions of service in the church.

In the closing remarks of the service, President Thomas S. Monson said that Perry’s many years of service had been exemplary and without flaw.

“There was no guile in his soul. There was no flaw in his character. He loved the Lord with all his heart and soul and served him with all his might to the very end of his mortal life.”

The members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will gather in prayer and fasting to determine who will replace Elder Perry. They’ll likely announce their decision during the church’s general conference next October. 

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