Richard G. Scott

Richard G. Scott – Life, Faith, and Lasting Influence

Learn about Richard G. Scott (1928–2015), American engineer, religious leader, and member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Explore his biography, service, teachings, and legacy.

Introduction

Richard Gordon Scott was a notable American clergyman and engineer who served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1988 until his death in 2015.

With a background in mechanical and nuclear engineering, Scott combined scientific rigor and spiritual devotion. In his ecclesiastical role, he became known for compassionate counsel, teaching on repentance, faith, and enduring through trials.

Early Life and Education

Richard G. Scott was born on November 7, 1928, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Kenneth Leroy Scott and Mary Eliza Whittle Scott. Washington, D.C., where his father later served in the U.S. Department of Agriculture and became Assistant Secretary of Agriculture.

Scott grew up in an environment where his father was not yet a Latter-day Saint and his mother was relatively inactive in the church. Over time, through local church leaders, he was encouraged to attend services and participate in the faith.

He showed academic aptitude and went on to attend George Washington University, from which he graduated in 1950 with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

Later, he pursued postgraduate work in nuclear engineering at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Tennessee), though because much of the work was classified, he did not receive a formal doctoral degree.

Mission, Early Career, and Family

Shortly after graduating, Scott was called to serve a mission in Uruguay, from 1950 to 1953. He became fluent in Spanish during that time.

On July 16, 1953, shortly after his mission, he married Jeanene Watkins in the Manti Temple. She had also delayed her marriage while serving a mission.

From 1953 to 1965, Scott worked under Admiral Hyman Rickover on naval nuclear reactor development, contributing to projects such as the Nautilus (the first nuclear submarine) and the Shippingport land-based nuclear power station.

In 1965, he was called as mission president for the Argentina North Mission, relocating to Córdoba, Argentina, and serving through 1969.

After returning to the U.S., Scott joined a private consulting firm in nuclear engineering in Washington, D.C., until his call to full-time church leadership in 1977.

Service in the LDS Church

First Quorum of the Seventy and Presidency of the Seventy

In April 1977, Scott was called to the First Quorum of the Seventy, becoming a general authority. October 1983, he was appointed to the Presidency of the Seventy, serving until his call as an apostle in 1988.

During his time as a seventy, he served in administrative roles including as Managing Director of the Priesthood Department and Executive Administrator for Southern Mexico and Central America.

Apostle in the Quorum of the Twelve

On October 1, 1988, Scott was sustained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, filling the vacancy from the death of Marion G. Romney. He was ordained a few days later.

He served in that capacity until his death on September 22, 2015, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In his apostleship, Scott was recognized by church members as a prophet, seer, and revelator.

Teachings, Publications & Style

Scott was known for delivering heartfelt and compassionate messages, often speaking directly to the listener. He urged repentance, personal righteousness, and trust in Jesus Christ’s Atonement.

In 2007, he published a book Finding Peace, Happiness and Joy, drawing on themes he frequently taught—such as overcoming adversity, making righteous choices, and moving forward in life.

Among his notable General Conference addresses are:

• “To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse” (April 2008)

• “Truth, the Foundation of Correct Decisions” (October 2007)

• “Jesus Christ, Our Redeemer” (April 1997)

Scott also emphasized that even in times of weakness, one need not be silent—the Lord already knows our struggles—and encouraged believers to pray as an act of faith, not perfection.

Outside of formal teaching, he enjoyed hobbies like painting, watercolor, hiking, birdwatching, and took care of household “fix-it” tasks.

Legacy & Influence

• Scott’s dual identity as engineer and apostle symbolized the harmony of faith and reason for many in the LDS community.

• His messages continue to be referenced and studied by church members seeking counsel on trials, repentance, mental health, grief, and spiritual endurance.

• His life journey—from mission service to high scientific work to full-time ecclesiastical leadership—serves as a model of lifelong commitment and adaptability.

• In the decades following his death, his talks and writings remain in circulation, continuing to comfort and inspire new generations.