President Benson Celebrates Eighty-ninth Birthday

President Ezra Taft Benson celebrated his eighty-ninth birthday August 4 at a reception in the Church Administration Building in Salt Lake City.

With his wife, Flora, he greeted General Authorities and admired the many cards he had received from members of the Church throughout the world.

Those attending the reception sang “Happy Birthday” and one of President Benson’s favorite songs, “When It’s Springtime in the Rockies,” with President and Sister Benson joining in.

President Benson expressed gratitude to members who have followed his admonition to read the Book of Mormon. “I rejoice in the progress we’re making in the Church,” he said. “That’s the best birthday present I could ever have.”

When President Benson was asked how he felt, he replied: “I feel great!”

The Bensons finished the day’s celebration at a family dinner with their children and grandchildren—a birthday tradition they have enjoyed for years.

Born 4 August 1899 in Whitney, Idaho, President Benson is the eldest of George T. and Sarah Dunkley Benson’s eleven children.