William Mark Bassett, a devoted husband and father and a beloved leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the age of 59. Known for his unwavering faith, compassionate leadership, and deep love for his family, he dedicated his life to lifting others and strengthening the Church throughout the world.
He is survived by his wife, Angela; his children, Jessica Bowden (Tyson), Taylor (Whitney), Amanda Herzog (Luke), Brandon (Bethany), and Jeffrey (Bella); and 15 grandchildren. He is now reunited with his beloved Mother, Edwina Acker Bassett, who preceded him in death earlier this year.
Mark was born on August 14, 1966, in Carmichael, California, to William Lynn and Edwina Bassett. His parents nurtured in him a deep love for the gospel and a strong sense of responsibility toward others. Growing up in a close-knit family, he developed the habits of hard work, humility, and quiet discipleship that would shape his life and ministry.
Following his graduation from Brigham Young University in 1991, where he earned a degree in accounting, Mark built a career as controller at Brasher’s Sacramento Auto Auction. He later became the CFO and co-owner of West Coast Auto Auctions, Inc., where he operated wholesale auto auctions throughout the western United States.
As a young man, Mark faithfully served a full-time mission in the Guatemala, Guatemala City Mission. He also served as ward Young Men President, Bishop, High Councilor, Stake President and Area Seventy. He and Angie served as mission leaders of the Arizona Mesa Mission from 2007 to 2010.
In April 2016, he was sustained as a General Authority Seventy, a calling he fulfilled with unwavering dedication. His assignments took him across the world, including service in the Brazil, United States Southeast, and United States Northeast Area Presidencies. He also served in the Missionary Department beginning in 2019 and spent the last three years as the Executive Director. He found great joy in being with missionaries throughout the world. His ministry was defined by his gentle manner, clear faith, and sincere desire to help others come unto the Savior.
Mark’s greatest joy was found in his family. He and Angie built a home centered on faith, love, and fun. They enjoyed family time and family vacations filled with laughter, joy, and great food. He was a devoted father to their five children, whom he loved with tenderness, humor, and unwavering support. He also treasured his role as a grandfather, delighting in the simple, joyful moments spent with his grandchildren.
To his family, he was a steady, gentle presence—patient, thoughtful, and endlessly loving.
Mark leaves behind a legacy defined by faith, humility, and a love of the Savior. His life was a testament to quiet discipleship—he taught not only through sermons and leadership, but through the way he listened, encouraged, and lifted those around him.
A public viewing will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the North Salt Lake Utah Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 900 Eaglepointe Drive in North Salt Lake, Utah.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 12 noon at the same location, 900 Eaglepointe Drive in North Salt Lake, Utah.
Interment will follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy, Utah.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the physicians and medical teams at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital and LDS Hospital for their dedicated and gentle care. They truly went above and beyond and treated Mark with dignity and compassion. They would also like to thank Mark’s brethren in the Quorums of the Seventy, the Quorum of the Twelve, and the First Presidency for their tender watch care during this time. Finally, the family would like to express thanks for all the fasting and prayers from friends around the world, and for the many kindnesses expressed over the past week.