Gordon B. Hinckley, 97, Dies; President of Mormon Church

Gordon Bitner Hinckley was born in Salt Lake City on June 23, 1910, attended public schools and worked while young as a newspaper carrier for the Deseret News.

After his graduation from the University of Utah, he contemplated enrollment in the Columbia University graduate school of journalism, to be followed by a career in newspapers. But he headed instead for Great Britain, where he served as a full-time church missionary for two years.

Afterward, according to biographical material produced by the church, he was assigned to organize what was to become the church's public affairs program. It seemed a logical choice given what were described as his communications skills as well as his wit and humor.

His talents at public speaking were honed in his missionary days at London's Hyde Park, a venue renowned the world over as a center for freewheeling oratory and debate.

He held posts in the top ranks of church leadership before being chosen as president, succeeding Howard W. Hunter. Hunter was preceded by Ezra Taft Benson, a former secretary of agriculture.

The years before Hinckley became church president had included some rough patches.

In 1993, according to news accounts, five people who expressed dissenting views or feminist opinions contrary to church teaching were excommunicated.

In an interview afterward, Hinckley said the church allowed a member to "think as he pleases."

But, he said, "when an individual speaks openly and actively and takes measures to enlist others in opposition to the church and its programs and doctrines, then we feel there is cause for action."

Hinckley was a businessman and community leader and had served as chairman of the executive committee of the trustees of Brigham Young University.

Known for his vigor, Hinckley appeared firmly committed to spreading his faith beyond the country of its birth. Over the years, according to figures compiled by the church, he traveled more than a quarter-million miles on church work.

In an unusual display of durability, he made a 25,000-mile, seven-day, nine-nation journey at the age of 95.

Such work, he indicated, was part of the responsibility he assumed as leader of the church.

He once told the Associated Press that he would "enjoy sitting in a rocker" listening to music and thinking deep thoughts. But he said, "such activity offers no challenge and makes no contribution."

He was married in 1937 to Marjorie Pay, who died in 2004. They had five children, who survive. Farah said he also had 25 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

A church Web site described his activities and outlook by saying that he had counseled church members to aid new converts, to befriend members of other faiths, to live exemplary lives and to avoid the evils of the world.