SALT LAKE CITY -- Utah's political and spiritual leaders said Mormon church President Gordon B. Hinckley was a man who showed kindness and respect to other religions and cared deeply about his home state.

"He was not only revered as a prophet for those members of the LDS church, but he was a great community leader," said House Speaker Greg Curtis, R-Sandy, a Mormon. "He taught us about bringing the community together and working together, regardless of religious faith."

About 62 percent of Utah's 2.7 million residents are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Leaders in all levels of government are members, including the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general.

Gov. Jon Huntsman ordered U.S. and state flags on state property flown at half-staff. Hinckley died Sunday at age 97.

"We join with thousands of others who have been touched by his words and deeds, in remembering all he has done for so many in our community and in the world. His leadership in humanitarian efforts around the world was matched only by his efforts in his own beloved state and community as a committed citizen," Huntsman said in a statement.

The church is a major player in Utah business, especially in Salt Lake City, where LDS headquarters and Temple Square anchor downtown.

Hinckley was praised Sunday for his efforts to revitalize downtown with the 20-acre City Creek Center, a $1 billion development now under construction with retail, office and residential space.

Mayor Ralph Becker, who is not Mormon, said Hinckley made it a habit to branch out to other religions.

"He was such a unifier, someone who was warm and engaging and respecting of everyone who he encountered," said Becker, a former state lawmaker.

"He didn't distinguish among people based on what their religion was. He treated everybody with the same kind of kindness and acceptance and respect that I think all of us would aspire to," Becker said.

Utah Episcopal Bishop Carolyn Tanner Irish said she'll find it "difficult to imagine the world" without Hinckley.

"In my youth, and when I returned to Utah to lead another church, he has always been the quintessential good neighbor," Irish said.