Elder W. Mark Bassett has died at the age of 59, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has confirmed.
Bassett, who had served the authority of CEO since April 2016, breathed his last on Monday, May 11, 2026.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement on May 12, 2026.
The statement highlighted Bassett’s death as a result of a traumatic brain injury.
The statement reads: “Elder W. Mark Bassett, died on May 11, 2026 as a result of a traumatic brain injury.”
It added: “He (Bassett) was with his family when the incident occurred.”
However, the church did not mention what actually happened that caused the severe brain damage.
The statement continued: “Elder Bassett will be deeply missed and always remembered for his great faith and devoted service to the Lord Jesus Christ.”
The church offered its condolences to his family, adding: “Our love and prayers are with his dear wife Angela, his children and his grandchildren at this difficult time.”
A few days before his death, Bassett addressed the missionaries at a spiritual session in Provo, Utah.
At the Missionary Training Center (MTC), Utah, Bassett shared his personal faith and encouraged missionaries to “invite everyone to come—and do all you can to help them enter this beautiful gate that leads to eternal life.”
At the time of his passing, Bassett was serving as the Executive Director of the Missionary Department.
The department’s duties include overseeing global mission efforts, which resulted in tremendous growth.
