W. Mark Bassett has died at the age of 59, as confirmed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Bassett, who had served the authority as executive director 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 head trauma.
The statement reads: “Elder W. Mark Bassett passed away on May 11, 2026 as a result of a traumatic brain injury. »
“He (Bassett) was with his family when the incident happened,” he adds.
However, the Church did not mention what actually happened that caused the serious brain injury.
The statement continued: “Brother Bassett will be deeply missed and always remembered for his great faith and dedicated 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 during this difficult time. »
Just days before his death, Bassett spoke to missionaries at a spiritual session held in Provo, Utah.
At the Missionary Training Center (MTC) in Utah, Bassett shared his personal faith and urged missionaries to “invite everyone to come and do whatever you can to help them walk through that beautiful door that leads to eternal life.”
At the time of his death, Bassett was executive director of the mission department.
The department’s duties include overseeing global mission efforts, which have resulted in considerable growth.
