Senior LDS missionary dies in lawn mowing accident

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A senior missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has passed away in a lawn mowing accident in Missouri, according to church officials.

Elder Brent Blackburn, 68, died on Saturday, Aug. 23, near Gallatin, Missouri. He was operating a lawn mower on the grounds of the church’s Adam-ondi-Ahman historic site, riding the mower on a side hill when it overturned, according to the church.

Elder Blackburn has been serving with his wife, Sister Carolyn Blackburn, at the site since April 2025. They are from the Helper Utah Stake.

“Our condolences and prayers are with Sister Blackburn and their family at this difficult time,” a press release from the church states. “We pray that all who are affected by this will feel the peace and comfort of our loving Heavenly Father as they honor the life and faithful service of Elder Blackburn.”

No further information is available at this time.