JEFFREY R. HOLLAND – A FRIEND TO SCOUTING

Scouting America, Vanguard International Scouting, and Latter-day Saint communities have lost a devoted champion. President Jeffrey R. Holland, who passed away last week morning at age 85, was more than an Eagle Scout and Distinguished Eagle—he was a tireless advocate who understood that Scouting shapes not just young men, but the very character of our nation. From his election to the BSA National Executive Board in 2015, following in the footsteps of Elder George Albert Smith, Elder Ezra Taft Benson, and President Thomas S. Monson, President Holland brought passionate dedication to every interaction with Scouting leaders and youth across America.

June 2016: Primary General President Joy Jones (and husband), Elder D Todd Christofferson (and wife), Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (and wife), and YM General President Stephen Owen (and wife) dedicate the Monson Leadership Excellence Complex at Summit Bechtel Reserve.

Those who witnessed President Holland at Scouting’s National Annual Meetings saw his genuine investment in Scouting’s mission. He shared the story of a young Latter-day Saint soldier in Vietnam who, in a moment of terror, could recall nothing to comfort his comrade except the Scout Law—”trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.” President Holland called these words “a pretty impressive description of what a religious life ought to be,” recognizing that Scouting had come through for that young man when he needed it most. This encapsulated his belief: that Scouting wasn’t just an activity, but a preparation for life’s most challenging moments.

Even during difficult transitions, President Holland’s commitment never wavered. When the Church announced its decision to end chartered units in 2020, he worked tirelessly to ensure the separation was handled with dignity and friendship. As Elder Ronald A. Rasband testified, “There has been no greater advocate for this separation with the BSA to be amicable and friendly than Elder Holland.” With characteristic optimism, President Holland reminded everyone, “This isn’t a divorce. This is sending kids off to college.” He encouraged Latter-day Saint youth to continue in Scouting if they wished and urged leaders to “keep serving”—words that reflected his unwavering belief in Scouting’s enduring value.

President Holland’s life embodied the Scout Law he so eloquently recited. He was eternally optimistic, describing his glass as not just half full but “flowing over the top.” His final words to Scouting leaders ring as true today as when he first spoke them: “A Scout is cheerful. These are sobering moments, but we’ll work our way through whatever difficulties come. Good will prevail; truth will triumph and bless the lives of young men in generations to come.” May we honor his memory by living those same values and continuing the work he held so dear. President Holland’s mission on earth is fulfilled, but his influence on Scouting—and on all who knew him—will endure for generations.

Rest in peace, President Holland. A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. You were all of these and more.

Additional Resources:

Elder Holland’s address at the Duty to God Breakfast, part of Scouting’s National Annual Meeting 2016: Elder Holland Tells Boy Scout Leaders Duty to God Is a Way of Life

Elder Holland delivers “face to face” message on Aaronic Priesthood’s roles with the Sacrament – National Scout Jamboree 2017