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SALT LAKE CITY — Funeral services were still pending one day after the death of Elder L. Tom Perry, the apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who died Saturday at the age of 92.
On Sunday, Elder Perry's only son, Lee Perry, shared his thoughts about the apostle's death, saying his father faced the final chapter in his life with courage.
“It wasn't tragic, because my father was so blessed throughout his life. He had 92 years of wonderful health," Lee Perry said. "I think he would have loved to have stayed longer, but I think he had a lot of comfort from the Lord that this was his time.”
Lee Perry acknowledged his father’s passing came much sooner than expected, even though he was not given a very promising prognosis when he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer on April 23. He said he felt inspired as he has watched his father's attitude and faith over the past five weeks.
Elder Perry's family was with him in his home when he died Saturday afternoon, Lee Perry said.
"It was a very sweet, peaceful passing, and he wasn't in pain," he said, "and we just really appreciated that blessing.”
Just two months ago, Elder Perry appeared strong and healthy at the LDS Church's annual general conference. Though the diagnosis of terminal cancer came as a surprise, Lee Perry said his father took it in stride.
“When Dr. Pearl walked out of the room after giving (information that) would probably bring tears to anyone — certainly brought tears to me at the time, and tears to everyone else — my father said, ‘I really like that doctor,’” Lee Perry said. "And that is just characteristic of the way he faced everything in his life, including death.”
After the diagnosis, Elder Perry returned to the office two days a week. But when he went home on Tuesday, Lee Perry said his father realized the end was near.
"He woke up in the middle of the night, and he said he was so peaceful and he saw a light; and the inspiration came to him that it was his time and his mission was over,” Lee Perry said.
On Wednesday, two fellow apostles visited Elder Perry to discuss some church business he wanted to ensure was completed, Lee Perry said; on Thursday, the First Presidency returned to be with Elder and Sister Perry; and on Friday, Elder Perry shared a tender visit with Elder Boyd K. Packer, his quorum president.
Up until the end, Lee Perry said his father's concern was not for himself, but for his family. Elder Perry's influence will be missed by those he served, his son said.
“He just lifted everyone around him, and he multiplied their talents," Lee Perry said. "And again, it is his legacy, it is what he will be remembered for.”
