Joseph Smith, Sr.

Joseph Smith, Sr. (1771–1840) was the father of Joseph Smith, Jr., the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Joseph Sr. was also one of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon's Golden Plates and was the first Presiding Patriarch of the early Latter Day Saint church.

Far West and Nauvoo

Smith moved with his family to Far West, Missouri in 1838 and from there to the church's new heaquarters at Nauvoo, Illinois in 1839. Old age and illnesses had taken their toll and by the end of summer 1840, Smith realized he was dying. He called his family around him, administered patriarchal blessings, and then ordained his eldest surviving son, Hyrum to succeed to the office of Presiding Patriarch by right of lineage.

Related Topics:
Far West, Missouri - Nauvoo, Illinois - Hyrum - Lineage

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Joseph Smith, Sr. died on September 14, 1840, continuing to affirm his testimony in the Book of Mormon.

Related Topics:
September 14 - 1840

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