On New Year's Day, the streets of St. George, Utah, were lined with hundreds of mourners as they gathered to pay their final respects to Jeffrey R. Holland, a senior leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Holland, who served as the president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, passed away on December 27 due to complications from kidney disease. His funeral, attended by family, friends, and admirers, was a poignant tribute not only to his leadership but also to his deep connection with the community he cherished. Despite the steady rain that fell throughout the morning, the outpouring of affection was evident as community members lined a seven-block procession route along Tabernacle Street. The somber atmosphere was a reflection of the profound impact Holland had on the lives of many in his hometown. Sharon Kendall, a longtime resident, expressed her sentiments, saying, “I almost felt like the heavens were crying a little bit for us because of our loss.” The emotional weight of the day was palpable, as attendees shared stories of their experiences with Holland and reflected on his legacy. Holland was particularly known for his heartfelt connection to southern Utah, frequently quoting, “the red sand of southern Utah never gets out of your shoes.” This phrase resonated with many attendees, symbolizing the deep roots he had in the community. Greg Goldthorpe, who attended Brigham Young University during Holland's presidency there, recalled the inseparable partnership between Holland and his late wife, Patricia. “He always stood at the podium with his wife, Pat,” Goldthorpe noted. “That made such an impression on what marriage could be like.” Their relationship served as a model for many, illustrating the values of love and partnership. Patricia Holland passed away in early 2023 after battling COVID-19, adding a layer of poignancy to Jeffrey Holland’s funeral. Kendall shared how Holland’s openness about his grief helped her cope with her own losses, stating, “His words have always impacted me at a very deep level, and so we just felt like it would be our privilege to be here. He’s always made an impact here.” The mutual support and understanding shared in the community were evident as mourners reflected on the lessons imparted by both Holland and his late wife. Derek Barney, another attendee, spoke movingly about the personal influence Holland had on his life. Three decades ago, Barney found himself struggling with drug addiction, facing legal troubles after robbing a pharmacy. It was then that Holland extended a lifeline of hope to his family. “He told my mom not to worry about me because I would be okay. That everything would turn out okay for me,” Barney recalled. This moment of encouragement stayed with him, ultimately guiding him toward recovery. Today, having been clean for 25 years and working as a therapist for other addicts, Barney reflected on Holland’s lasting impact, sharing, “One of the last times I saw Holland, he gave me a note that said, ‘Thanks for being a good husband and father.’ That has motivated me to live up to what he saw in me.” The service not only served as a farewell to a beloved leader but also as a celebration of the values he instilled in those around him. “This is his town,” Goldthorpe remarked, emphasizing the connection Holland had with St. George. Many attendees echoed similar sentiments, with Kendall adding, “Oh, he’s kind of an icon for those of us that have been in St. George for a long time.” Holland's influence extended beyond his ecclesiastical duties. A revered leader within the LDS Church, he was known for his compassionate outreach and dedication to service. His teachings emphasized love, understanding, and the importance of family, resonating deeply with congregants and community members alike. As the funeral procession made its way to the cemetery, the rain fell gently, perhaps symbolizing the tears shed by those who knew and loved him. In the wake of his passing, the community of St. George is left to carry on Holland's legacy of kindness, compassion, and faith. His contributions to the church and the community will be remembered for generations to come, as individuals continue to share their stories and reflect on the profound impact he had on their lives. As the final goodbye was said, it was clear that Jeffrey R. Holland would remain a cherished figure in the hearts of many, a testament to a life dedicated to service, love, and the betterment of those around him.