GENERAL CONFERENCE

WATCH: ‘Uvalde Angels’

Apr 2, 2023, 12:00 PM

On Tuesday, May 24, 2022, the unthinkable happened at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. A gunman rushed the school, killing 19 children and two teachers.

That night, 1,300 miles away in Huntsville, Utah, 78-year-old JR Johansen was watching the news and saw the horrific story. He wondered what could be done for the grieving families.

Johansen, a Vietnam vet who has experienced his own grief, is an incredible artist. He has dedicated years of service, painting portraits of missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who lost their lives while serving — all free of charge.

He thought of these children in Uvalde, wondering if there was any way to capture their sweet images on canvas. Coincidently, his brother and sister-in-law lived in Texas, and called him days later to see if he would be willing to paint individual portraits for all 21 victims. They would make arrangements to get him photos of each child and a short bio to help Johansen get to know them better.

Immediately, Johansen went to work, and within months, was able to personally deliver the portraits to each of the 21 families. It was a massive undertaking that left an indelible impression on Johansen that will last forever.

KSL 5 TV Live

General Conference

Audience members begin exiting after the Sunday afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General C...

Daniel Woodruff

Latter-day Saints react after 17 new temples announced

It was a big finale to General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as President Russell M. Nelson announced 17 new temples. 

4 months ago

The new Deseret Peak Utah Temple in Tooele is pictured on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. (Laura Seitz, Des...

Mark Jones

Church announces 17 new temples, including one in central Utah

President Russell M. Nelson announced 17 new temples during the Sunday afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

4 months ago

These United States...

KSL TV

WATCH: ‘These United States: Stories that inspire and unite us’

In ‘These United States,’ we celebrate the remarkable strength of community and the transformative impact of collective action. Our nation, often divided, can find unity in these stories that reveal our shared humanity

4 months ago

President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently celebrated ...

KSL TV

WATCH: ‘A Century of Service: President Russell M. Nelson’

As President Russell M. Nelson celebrates 100 years of life, we celebrate his remarkable example of dedicated service, leadership, and faith.

4 months ago

Conferencegoers exit the Conference Center after the afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual Gene...

Daniel Woodruff

Millions hear messages of hope and faith during first day of General Conference

The first day of the 194th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wrapped up Saturday evening as millions around the world heard messages of hope and faith.

4 months ago

The Conference Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints....

Amanda Dickson, KSL NewsRadio

Dickson: What inspires us in 2024?

Editor’s note: This is an editorial piece. An editorial, like a news article, is based on fact but also shares opinions. The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and are not associated with our newsroom. Tune in on Sunday at 8 a.m. for a special session of ‘A Woman’s View’ with show […]

4 months ago

Sponsored Articles

luxury living room with a classic white sofa and sofa, interior design...

Lighting Design

Revisiting home lighting trends for 2025

Looking for inspiration to revamp your home lighting? This article outlines some of the emerging lighting trends for 2025.

holiday gift basket with blue tissue paper and gingerbread cookies...

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Holiday hacks for a stress-free season

Get more out of your time with family and loved ones over the holidays by following these tips for a stress-free season.

2 computer techs in a computer shop holding up a computer server with the "hang loose" sign...

PC Laptops

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right computer

With these tips, choosing the right computer that fits your needs and your budget will be easier than ever.

crowds of people in a German style Christmas market...

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Celebrate Christkindlmarket at This Is The Place Heritage Park!

The Christkindlmarket is an annual holiday celebration influenced by German traditions and generous giving.

Image of pretty woman walking in snowy mountains. Portrait of female wearing warm winter earmuff, r...

Lighting Design

Brighten your mood this winter with these lighting tricks

Read our lighting tips on how to brighten your mood in the winter if you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

A kitchen with a washer and dryer and a refrigerator...

Appliance Man

Appliance Man: a trusted name in Utah’s home appliance industry

Despite many recent closures of local appliance stores, Appliance Man remains Utah's trusted home appliance business and is here to stay.

WATCH: ‘Uvalde Angels’