Christian Senior Missionary Dies in Missouri Lawn Mowing Accident

A senior missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was killed over the weekend in a lawn mowing accident at a historic church site in northern Missouri, church officials confirmed.

Elder Brent Blackburn, 68, of Helper, Utah, died Saturday while operating a riding lawn mower on the grounds of Adam-ondi-Ahman, a religiously significant property for Latter-day Saints near Gallatin, Mo. The machine overturned while he was working on a hillside, according to a statement from the church.

Elder Blackburn had been serving at the site since April with his wife, Sister Carolyn Blackburn. The couple had been called to the assignment by the church’s Helper Utah Stake, one of its regional congregational units.

In a statement, the church extended condolences to his family. “Our condolences and prayers are with Sister Blackburn and their family at this difficult time,” church leaders said. “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.”

Adam-ondi-Ahman is considered sacred by Latter-day Saints, who believe the site was visited by the biblical prophet Adam. It is owned and maintained by the church.

Elder Blackburn’s death marks a rare fatal accident among senior missionaries, who often serve in historical sites, temples, or humanitarian assignments around the world.