David Oman McKay ( – ) [2] was an American religious leader and educator who served as the ninth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1951 until his death in 1970.
After 44 years in the Quorum of the Twelve and 19 as Church President, David O. McKay died on , in Salt Lake City at the age of 96. In 1898 a young missionary named David O. McKay discovered a carved stone bearing a message that changed his life.
David O. McKay - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
David O. McKay (born Sept. 8, 1873, Huntsville, Utah, U.S.—died Jan. 18, 1970, Salt Lake City, Utah) was a U.S. religious leader, the ninth president (1951–70) of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons).
President David O. McKay was brought up with a respect for the U.S. Constitution, a respect which was deepened by his personal commitment to free agency. His tenure as President of the Church took place during the Cold War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam Conflict.
Thus David O. McKay, in his childhood and youth, was highly favored in having the guidance of exceptionally discreet and loving parents — faithful, consistent Latter-day Saints. In their home the Priesthood of God was always respected.
Starting in 1934, David O. McKay served as a counselor in the First Presidency of the Mormon Church to both Heber J. Grant, and George Albert Smith. Then with the passing of George Albert Smith, David O. McKay was called as the Prophet and President of the Mormon Church on .