Salt Lake City, UT - Gary Young, founder ofYoung Living Essential Oils,passed away peacefully on May 12thin Salt Lake City, Utah, surrounded by his closest family and friends, due to complications resulting from a series of strokes.  He was 68.

In a heartfelt, poetic tribute by his friend and colleague - Young Living's president and COO Jared Turner - Young is remembered as an iconic pioneer and messenger for essential oils and their benefits to people around the world.  He spent 35 years studying their benefits and methods of extraction, while building a billion-dollar plus global business designed to share what he deemed “the gift” of essential oils with millions of people.

Writes Turner: "His commitment to physical and emotional well-being, combined with his lifelong love of nature, drove him to learn everything about essential oils – from how they are produced to their wellness benefits. He was passionate about providing members with only the highest quality oils, sourced from the company’s own farms and Seed to Seal-certified suppliers and partners across the globe."

But Young's passion for life wasn’t limited to his work. Turner continues: “Those who knew Gary understood that no man ever had a bigger heart or was more devoted to the betterment of humanity. His love for others, empathy, and forgiving nature were always on display across his roles as a husband, father, farmer, researcher, leader, explorer, innovator, mentor, philanthropist, and more. Gary’s “maverick” spirit, unfailing work ethic, and passion for life inspired everyone around him to be better, bolder, and kinder. He not only pioneered and created the product category of high quality essential oils as a mainstream wellness solution, but he also raised the bar for quality standards and created a purpose-driven movement that continues to sweep the globe and change millions of lives for the better."

Gary's wife Mary Young will continue to serve as Young Living's CEO, and Turner will continue as president and COO.  They are committed to carrying on Young's legacy and mission of providing Young Living essential oils to every home in the world, and honoring his memory by striving every day to live by his philosophy:

“To truly accomplish our vision of taking the priceless benefits of our essential oils and oil-infused products to every home in the world, every possible effort is required. We seek ways to take positive, powerful action every day in every way. Ours is a proactive culture— never a reactive one.”

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the Young family has asked that donations be made to the nonprofit Young started in 2009 -The D. Gary Young, Young Living Foundation.