Dallin H. Oaks is a prominent American jurist, educator and religious leader. Born in 1932, he has served in varied roles including law professor, university president, state supreme court justice and high-ranking leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints (LDS Church). His story matters because it demonstrates how academic discipline, legal service and religious commitment can intersect to shape both institutional leadership and personal legacy. As he has stepped into the role of the 18th President of the Church, his biography offers insight into faith, governance and public life. Let’s explore his journey from Utah youth to global religious leader.
See also: Andrew Carnegie Biography: Net Worth, Early Life, Education, Family, Career & Legacy
Highlights Dallin Harris Oaks Biography
- Full Name: Dallin Harris Oaks
- Date of Birth: August 12, 1932 (Age 93 as of 2025)
- Profession: Jurist, educator, religious leader
- Education: Bachelor’s in accounting from Brigham Young University (1954); J.D. from University of Chicago Law School (1957)
- Major Roles: President of BYU (1971-1980); Justice of the Utah Supreme Court (1980-1984); Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (since 1984); 18th President of LDS Church (from October 14, 2025)
- Family: First married to June Dixon (1952-1998), six children; married Kristen M. McMain in 2000
- Notable Achievements: Served as law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Earl Warren, taught law at University of Chicago, long-time church leader
Early Life
Dallin H. Oaks was born on August 12, 1932, in Provo, Utah, to Lloyd Edress Oaks and Stella (née Harris) Oaks. During his childhood the family also lived for a period in Twin Falls, Idaho. His father died when Dallin was young, and his mother experienced a period of mental illness, which meant that young Dallin and his siblings were supported by grandparents for a time. These early challenges contributed to his resilience, self-reliance and intellectual curiosity.
While a teenager, he developed a fascination with radio and electronics—before age sixteen he earned a radio-operator license and worked in a repair shop and broadcast context. In high school and early college he worked jobs to support himself and his family. This background of early responsibility and strong work ethic shaped his academic and professional trajectory.
Education
Oaks attended Brigham Young University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with high honors in 1954. He then pursued legal education at the University of Chicago Law School on a full-tuition scholarship, serving as Editor-in-Chief of the law review and graduating with a J.D. (cum laude) in 1957.
After law school he clerked for Chief Justice Earl Warren of the U.S. Supreme Court—an illustrious credential for a young lawyer. These formative years set the foundation for his career in legal scholarship, practice and public service.
Career / Professional Journey
After his clerkship, Oaks entered private legal practice in Chicago at the firm of Kirkland & Ellis, working on corporate litigation and developing experience in complex legal matters. He later returned to academia, teaching law at the University of Chicago beginning in the early 1960s.
In 1971 Oaks was appointed President of his alma mater, Brigham Young University. During his presidency (1971-1980) he oversaw the creation of the law school and business graduate school, strengthened faculty and expanded the intellectual culture of the institution.
In 1980 he became a Justice of the Utah Supreme Court. He resigned that post in 1984 to accept a full-time ecclesiastical calling as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the LDS Church—a lifetime religious leadership role.
His religious service deepened over decades: he served as First Counselor in the Church’s First Presidency from 2018 to 2025. On October 14, 2025, he was announced as the 18th President (Prophet) of the LDS Church—the highest office in that faith. He leads globally, guiding both spiritual and administrative affairs of the Church.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Public reliable information on Dallin H. Oaks’s personal net worth is limited. Some sources estimate modest figures, reflecting his lifelong focus on service rather than wealth accumulation. His lifestyle has been marked by leadership in education, law and religion rather than business titans or celebrity wealth.
His residence and resources are consistent with senior ecclesiastical leadership in his faith tradition: focused on public service, teaching and institutional leadership rather than personal luxury. His professional background demonstrates a commitment to stewardship, education and spiritual influence.
Personal Life
In June 24, 1952, Oaks married June Dixon while at BYU; the couple had six children. June passed away on July 21, 1998. Among their children is Jenny Oaks Baker, an acclaimed violinist. On August 25, 2000, Oaks married Kristen Meredith McMain in the Salt Lake Temple.
He is a devoted father, grandfather and church leader. His family life has included balancing decades of professional and ecclesiastical responsibility with home and service commitments. He has spoken often of the importance of family, faith and education in his personal and professional identity.
Conclusion
Dallin H. Oaks’s life is a remarkable blend of legal scholarship, educational leadership and religious commitment. From his humble beginnings in Utah to the presidency of a global faith, his journey shows how intellect, discipline and service can converge in a life of influence and responsibility. His legacy spans universities, legal institutions and religious communities—and offers insight into the impact of a life dedicated to faith and leadership. Whether in the courtroom, the classroom, or the pulpit, Oaks has consistently emphasized integrity, learning and moral stewardship.
For those seeking inspiration from a life of service, Dallin H. Oaks exemplifies how sustained dedication and ethical responsibility can lead to significant influence and enduring contribution.
FAQs About Dallin H. Oaks
How old is Dallin H. Oaks?
Dallin H. Oaks was born August 12, 1932; as of 2025 he is 93 years old.
What is Dallin H. Oaks’s educational background?
He earned a Bachelor’s in Accounting from BYU in 1954 and a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School in 1957.
What key roles has Dallin H. Oaks held?
He has been President of Brigham Young University (1971-1980), Justice of the Utah Supreme Court (1980-1984), a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (from 1984) and became the 18th President of the LDS Church in 2025.
Is Dallin H. Oaks married?
Yes. He first married June Dixon in 1952; they had six children. After June’s death in 1998, he married Kristen M. McMain in 2000.
What is Dallin H. Oaks known for?
He is known for his legal and educational leadership, his writings on law and ethics, and his role as a senior leader of the LDS Church.
What is Dallin H. Oaks’s nationality?
He is American, born in Provo, Utah, United States.
How did Dallin H. Oaks become the President of the LDS Church?
In accordance with church tradition, the longest-serving member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles becomes the next President following the previous leader’s passing. Oaks was sustained on October 14, 2025, as the 18th President.
