On September 28, 2015, family, friend, and Church leaders gathered to celebrate and remember the life of Elder Richard Gordon Scott. Elder Scott passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2015, due to incidents of old age. He is preceded in death by his wife Jeanene and two of their children.
President Henry B. Eyring conducted the funeral, while the Mormon Tabernacle Choir provided the music. The most notable selection was Come Thou Found of Ev’ry Blessing, which proved to be a powerful closing number. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland gave the invocation and Elder M. Russell Ballard gave the benediction.
The speakers were Michael W. Scott, Elder Scott’s son, Elder D. Todd Christofferson, who served as a missionary under Elder Scott, President Russell M. Nelson, and President Thomas S. Monson. The highlights of their talks can be found by click on the photos below. Do you have a favorite memory of Elder Scott? Share it in the comments below!
Elder Scott’s casket arrives at the Tabernacle.
Beautiful flowers are placed careful on top of the casket.
The packed Tabernacle stands as Elder Scott’s casket is brought inside.
Multiple flower arrangements were provided from the different organizations of the Church.
Multiple flower arrangements were provided from the different organizations of the Church.
Elder Scott’s casket.
Multiple flower arrangements were provided from the different organizations of the Church.
Multiple flower arrangements were provided from the different organizations of the Church.
President Eyring conducted the funeral. He expressed the tender feelings he had and said, “Elder Scott watched over me…he was for me ever the good shepherd.”
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir sang three pieces. They opened with I Know That My Redeemer Lives and closed with Come Thou Found of Every Blessing.
Elder Holland offered the invocation, and said, “Indeed it seems to us “Savior” may be the word we heard most coming from his lips.”
Michael W. Scott, Elder Scott’s son, shared warm memories of his father. From Elder Scott’s favorite vacation (criss-crossing the country without motel reservations) to his father’s losses, he said, ” Instead of bitterness he had hope. Instead of despair, he strengthened his resolve. Instead of doubt, he exercised faith in Christ. “
Elder Christofferson served as a missionary under Elder and Sister Scott. He shared the humorous story of Elder Scott stopping at a winery to buy grape juice. In talking about Elder and Sister Scott, he said, “That example of love has inspired thousands, if not millions.”
President Nelson shared this personal card Elder Scott had given him, with one of Elder Scott’s own paintings. He recounted many stories of their service together, including dedicating countries in South America in the midst of gunfire.
Elder Scott’s card to President Nelson.
The Choir sings Jesu! The Very Thought is Sweet!
President Monson was the closing speaker. “His model has always been the Lord Jesus Christ. Like the master, he went about doing good and God was with him. “
President Monson offered a final blessing to Elder Scott the day he passed away. “A feeling of love and peace permeated the home and touched my heart.”
The congregation reflects during Come Thou Found of Ev’ry Blessing by the Choir.
Elder Scott’s casket.
Elder Ballard offered the benediction. “We thank thee, Heavenly Father, for the privilege of knowing him.”
Members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles exit the Tabernacle.
A flag is draped over Elder Scott’s casket.
Pall bearers carry Elder Scott’s casket to the hearse.
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a social media manager, writer, and editor. Aleah served a mission in California and is addicted to organic milk, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
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