LOS ANGELES TIMES, May 31, 1994  This issue documents the passing of a highly influential figure in both American politics and religious history.
The bottom of the front page features a brief teaser note announcing "Mormon Leader Dies" alongside a portrait captioned "Ezra Taft Benson in 1985," which directs readers to a lengthy, detailed account on page 3 headed: "Ezra T. Benson, Leader of Mormons, Dies." Complete with subheads and an additional photo, the report covers his passing on Monday at his Salt Lake City home at the age of 94.
The historical significance of this coverage highlights a remarkably diverse and prominent life that bridged church and state. Before ascending to become the 13th President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1985, Benson left an indelible mark on Washington as the 15th U.S. Secretary of Agriculture throughout the entirety of Dwight D. Eisenhower’s administration. His appointment made him the first member of the clergy to serve in a presidential cabinet in over a century, a tenure defined by his staunch, often controversial opposition to government farm subsidies. Later in life, he pivoted fully to his ecclesiastical responsibilities, steering the Mormon Church through a period of massive global expansion and rapid membership growth before his death.
Other news, sports, and advertisements of the day are found throughout all four sections.
Complete in 4 sections, very nice condition.