Laid to rest: Apostle eulogized as a humble servant

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin was eulogized Friday as a humble servant of God who never sought acclaim or position but only to serve and love his fellow men.

At age 91, he had been the oldest living apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when he died unexpectedly late Monday. Church President Thomas S. Monson conducted the midday funeral service in the Tabernacle on Temple Square, lauding not only Elder Wirthlin's service, humility and dedication to God, but the football legacy he created at the University of Utah.

He recalled Elder Wirthlin's days as a running back. "When he played, he was known as 'Speedy Wirthlin.' I like that." Upon his graduation from the U., Elder Wirthlin's jersey No. 4 was retired. It was later framed and, for a time, hung in his office at the Church Administration Building, he said. "In recent years, he was something of a self-appointed chaplain to the U. team and traveled with them to many games. He was respected by coaches, players and fans alike."

President Monson was emotional when recalling a conversation earlier this week with U. football coach Kyle Whittingham, who told him that "out of love and respect, his initials — JBW — are now printed on the back of each teammate's helmet."

In addition to his dedication to the U., President Monson said Elder Wirthlin exemplified that same fervor in his drive to fulfill every assignment with exactness and honor. "Is his work now really done? Is rest what he sought? His work will never end."

Recounting the words on one cemetery headstone, he said to those who will miss Elder Wirthlin, "A light of our household is gone. A voice we loved is stilled. A place is vacant in our hearts that never can be filled."

He admonished Elder Wirthlin's children to think of him, especially at Christmas. "Think of Elisa (his wife). They did not want to be separated at Christmastime. They are together. You remember that if you forget everything else. Live so that you can be with them eternally.

"Goodbye, Joseph. Goodbye, Jose, until we meet tomorrow. Until then, wherever I go in this beautiful world, a big part of Joseph B. Wirthlin goes with me," President Monson said. "He was a man for all seasons, a teacher of truth, a true and faithful friend. I shall miss him. I shall miss him."

Elder Wirthlin's only son, Joseph B. Wirthlin Jr., praised his father as a man who "just never saw himself as anyone special." When he was ordained an apostle, he was told, "'Your humility will endear you to the people,' and so it has. He thought so little of himself because he thought so much of others and their needs."