Clarissa S. Williams
Born: 21 April 1859
Called as First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency: 3 October 1910
Calles as Relief Society General President: 2 April 1921
Released: 7 October 1928
Died: 8 March 1930
Called as First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency: 3 October 1910
Calles as Relief Society General President: 2 April 1921
Released: 7 October 1928
Died: 8 March 1930
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 2
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Relief Society Magazine, June 1921, Death of President Emmeline B. Wells and Appointment of President Clarissa Smith Williams
Relief Society Magazine, January 1923, President Clarissa S. Williams Visits Mexico
Relief Society Magazine, April 1923, Clarissa Smith Williams
Young Woman's Journal, March 1924, Tributes to the Relief Society
Relief Society Magazine, June 1924, President Williams' Birthday
Relief Society Magazine, July 1924, Unveiling of President Williams' Portrait
Relief Society Magazine, February 1928, President Williams Parts with Life Companion
Relief Society Magazine, March 1928, Letter to President Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, President Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, May 1930, Tributes to Clarissa Smith Williams
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Relief Society Magazine, June 1921, Death of President Emmeline B. Wells and Appointment of President Clarissa Smith Williams
Relief Society Magazine, January 1923, President Clarissa S. Williams Visits Mexico
Relief Society Magazine, April 1923, Clarissa Smith Williams
Young Woman's Journal, March 1924, Tributes to the Relief Society
Relief Society Magazine, June 1924, President Williams' Birthday
Relief Society Magazine, July 1924, Unveiling of President Williams' Portrait
Relief Society Magazine, February 1928, President Williams Parts with Life Companion
Relief Society Magazine, March 1928, Letter to President Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, President Clarissa S. Williams
Relief Society Magazine, May 1930, Tributes to Clarissa Smith Williams
Jenson, Andrew. "Williams, Clarissa S." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 2. pg. 738-740.
WILLIAMS, Clarissa Smith, first counselor to Emmeline B. Wells, president of all the Relief Societies in the Church, is the daughter of the late Pres. George A. Smith (Churchman, pioneer, colonizer, historian and statesman) and Susan E. West, pioneer and Temple worker. Her husband, Hon. William N. Williams, is prominently associated with religious, State, educational and financial affairs. Sister "Williams was born April 21, 1859, in the Historian's office (which was at that time the residence of her parents) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her education was obtained in the best schools the Territory then afforded, and she graduated from the normal department of the Deseret University, now the University of Utah, in 1875. Being an apt student and a natural teacher Sister Williams was employed at the age of fourteen as a pupil teacher in a school in the old Social Hall, taught by Miss Mary E. Cook. After her graduation she successfully conducted a private school and also taught in the schools of Iron county and Salt Lake City. She became the wife of Wm. N. Williams July 17, 1877, and have had a large, intelligent and interesting family of eleven children, eight of whom are living—two sons and six daughters. Their children were all born at their present home opposite the west entrance of the Temple Block. The lot on which their home is located, together with the entire block, was settled on by Sister Williams' father, George A. Smith, who was one of the original pioneers of 1847. From her early girlhood. Sister Williams has been an active and faithful Church worker, filling the positions of Sunday school teacher, and first counselor in the first primary organization in the 17th Ward. Later she became actively engaged in Relief Society work, a work which she has continuously and perseveringly carried on. She commenced her labor in the Relief Society at the age of sixteen as assistant block teacher; was secretary and later president of the 17th Wiard Relief Society and was assistant secretary of the old Salt Lake Stake organization. At the time of the division of the old Salt Lake Stake, in 1904, Sister Williams was appointed president of the Salt Lake Stake Relief Society. Nov. 7, 1901, she was appointed treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the General Relief Society. At the April general conference of the Church in 1911 she was appointed first counselor to the president of the Relief Society, Emmeline B. Wells, which position she now holds. She has traveled extensively in the interests of the Relief Societies, having visited many of the Stakes of Zion in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Arizona, California, the Northern States Mission, etc. With Counselor Julina L. Smith, she organized a Stake Relief Society in the Northwestern States Mission. She has also traveled extensively in the interests of the National Council of Women of the United States (with which organization the Relief Society is affiliated) having visited New Orleans, La., and Toledo, Ohio. In May, 1914, she attended the International Council of Women in Rome, Italy, having been elected one of nine delegates from the United States to that conference. At the close of the sessions in Rome (which lasted two weeks) she and her husband toured Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, England, and Wales. Sister Williamo is a charter member of the Daughters of the Pioneers and was the first historian of that organization. She is also interested in patriotic and literary work, being an active member of the society called the Daughters of the Revolution, in which organization she has held the office of treasurer and regent. She is also a member of the Authors Club and served a term as president of that organization. Sister Williams is a devoted wife and loving mother. Her genial and friendly disposition, her 'Pleasant personality and her gentleness instinctively draws everyone to her. On her many trips to various carts of the country she has made thousands of friends who look forward with pleasure to her periodical visits. Bro. and Sister Williams delight in entertaining their many friends from home as well as abroad and their splendid hospitality has been accepted by many.
WILLIAMS, Clarissa Smith, first counselor to Emmeline B. Wells, president of all the Relief Societies in the Church, is the daughter of the late Pres. George A. Smith (Churchman, pioneer, colonizer, historian and statesman) and Susan E. West, pioneer and Temple worker. Her husband, Hon. William N. Williams, is prominently associated with religious, State, educational and financial affairs. Sister "Williams was born April 21, 1859, in the Historian's office (which was at that time the residence of her parents) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her education was obtained in the best schools the Territory then afforded, and she graduated from the normal department of the Deseret University, now the University of Utah, in 1875. Being an apt student and a natural teacher Sister Williams was employed at the age of fourteen as a pupil teacher in a school in the old Social Hall, taught by Miss Mary E. Cook. After her graduation she successfully conducted a private school and also taught in the schools of Iron county and Salt Lake City. She became the wife of Wm. N. Williams July 17, 1877, and have had a large, intelligent and interesting family of eleven children, eight of whom are living—two sons and six daughters. Their children were all born at their present home opposite the west entrance of the Temple Block. The lot on which their home is located, together with the entire block, was settled on by Sister Williams' father, George A. Smith, who was one of the original pioneers of 1847. From her early girlhood. Sister Williams has been an active and faithful Church worker, filling the positions of Sunday school teacher, and first counselor in the first primary organization in the 17th Ward. Later she became actively engaged in Relief Society work, a work which she has continuously and perseveringly carried on. She commenced her labor in the Relief Society at the age of sixteen as assistant block teacher; was secretary and later president of the 17th Wiard Relief Society and was assistant secretary of the old Salt Lake Stake organization. At the time of the division of the old Salt Lake Stake, in 1904, Sister Williams was appointed president of the Salt Lake Stake Relief Society. Nov. 7, 1901, she was appointed treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the General Relief Society. At the April general conference of the Church in 1911 she was appointed first counselor to the president of the Relief Society, Emmeline B. Wells, which position she now holds. She has traveled extensively in the interests of the Relief Societies, having visited many of the Stakes of Zion in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Arizona, California, the Northern States Mission, etc. With Counselor Julina L. Smith, she organized a Stake Relief Society in the Northwestern States Mission. She has also traveled extensively in the interests of the National Council of Women of the United States (with which organization the Relief Society is affiliated) having visited New Orleans, La., and Toledo, Ohio. In May, 1914, she attended the International Council of Women in Rome, Italy, having been elected one of nine delegates from the United States to that conference. At the close of the sessions in Rome (which lasted two weeks) she and her husband toured Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, England, and Wales. Sister Williamo is a charter member of the Daughters of the Pioneers and was the first historian of that organization. She is also interested in patriotic and literary work, being an active member of the society called the Daughters of the Revolution, in which organization she has held the office of treasurer and regent. She is also a member of the Authors Club and served a term as president of that organization. Sister Williams is a devoted wife and loving mother. Her genial and friendly disposition, her 'Pleasant personality and her gentleness instinctively draws everyone to her. On her many trips to various carts of the country she has made thousands of friends who look forward with pleasure to her periodical visits. Bro. and Sister Williams delight in entertaining their many friends from home as well as abroad and their splendid hospitality has been accepted by many.
Jenson, Andrew. "Williams, Clarissa S." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 178, 200-201.
WILLIAMS, Clarissa S., sixth general president of the General Board of Relief Society (1921-1928) was born April 21, 1859, at the old Historian's Office in Salt Lake City, Utah, a daughter of Apostle George A. Smith (Church Historian) and Susan E. West. She was educated in the private school of Mary Cook and in the University of Deseret, receiving a teacher’s certificate from the latter institution. She joined the Relief Society as a young girl and acted in the capacities of visiting teacher, secretary, ward president, stake president, member of the general board, general treasurer, first counselor in the general presidency, and on April 2, 1921, was sustained as general president. Mrs. Williams who was possessed of fine business ability, centralized the funds of the General Board and established the business affairs of the board on a sound business basis. She represented the Relief Society at national and international councils of women and was a delegate to Rome in 1914, after which she toured Europe. She was a charter member of the Daughters of the Revolution and of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. On July 17, 1877, she was married to Wm. N. Williams and became the mother of eleven children. Sister Williams died March 8, 1930. (See also Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 2, p. 738.) |
"Death of President Emmeline B. Wells and Appointment of President Clarissa Smith Williams." Relief Society Magazine. June 1921. pg. 314-319.
Death of President Emmeline B. Wells and Appointment of President Clarissa Smith Williams The feelings of love and sorrow which fill the hearts of all members of the Relief Society with the passing of our great leader and wonderful president on Monday, April 25, 1921, will be tempered with a saintly gratitude that we have known and been associated so long with this pioneer Relief Society worker and leader. She deserved and enjoyed the confidence of all her associates, of the leaders of the Church, past and present, and she leaves behind a name that will never be effaced from the scroll of time. Her funeral services were held in the Tabernacle, April 29, and were in many respects, the most remarkable ever held for a woman in this Church, or in this generation. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH (DESERET NEWS, APRIL 25, 1921) Emmeline Blanch Woodward Wells was born on February 29, 1828, at Petersham, Worcester county, Mass., the daughter of David Woodward and Deiadama Hare Woodward. She graduated at a very early age from local and finishing schools, and at 15 was teaching school. She was baptized ' into the Church March 1, 1842, and was married the following year to James Harvey Harris. Moving to Nauvoo in 1844, the young couple were present during all the trying scenes connected with the martyrdom of Joseph Smith. In the apostacy that followed she was deserted by her husband and his family, and an added grief at this time was the death of her little son. In 1846 with the body of the Church, she started on the memorable western journey to Utah, and she remained, during the winter of 1847, at Winter Quarters, teaching school, as she had at Nauvoo, and taking care of her younger brother and sisters left orphans by the death of her mother. Becoming the wife of Bishop Newel K. Whitney, she came to Utah in 1848; and after his death, she married General Danniel H. Wells, in 1852. Of her six children, three survive her: Mrs. Isabel M. Sears and Mrs. Mell Woods, daughter of Bishop Whitney, and Mrs. Annie Wells Cannon, daughter of President Wells. She leaves a number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even great-great-grandchildren to rise up and call her blessed. , As a writer, suffragist and teacher Mrs. Wells took an active part in the development of early day Utah. When the women of Utah were enfranchised in February, 1870, she was one of the first to exercise the ballot, and has never failed since that time to vote. For years she wrote over the nom de plume of “Blanche Beachwood” for the Woman’s Exponent, and became editor and owner of that paper in 1877, retaining the office and performing the duties until the year 1914. In the very first days of the organization of the Relief Society in Utah, she became interested in that great Church auxiliary and she also aided' in the organization of the Y. L. M. I. A. and Primary associations. She served as corresponding secretary of the General Relief Society, under President Zina D. Young, later became general secretary, and in 1910 was unanimously chosen fifth president of that organization which office she has retained until three weeks ago. In 1874 she was appointed Utah vice-president of the National Woman’s Suffrage Association, and attended many of the national conferences, speaking before various national bodies in the interest of women and children. Many of these speeches were widely copied and quoted. She represented the state at the National Woman’s Suffrage Association in January, 1879, at Washington, D. C.; in 1882, at Omaha ; in 1885, at Washington, D. C.; in 1895, Atlanta, Georgia, where her speech on the Utah’s prospective admission to statehood was greatly applauded; in 1897, at Des Moines; in 1902, at Washington. She also took an active part .in the National Council of Women, appearing before that body in 1895, and was the first western woman to be elected an officer of that council, attending the International Council session in London in 1899. In 1876 she was given a special mission by President Brigham Young to lead the women of the Church in the gathering and the saving of grain. This mission she carried out so faithfully that at the time of the great World War the society was able, through the Church authorities, to hand over to national authorities a great quantity of wheat saved during the years, which was used to feed the American fighting forces abroad. Previously a large quantity had been contributed for the relief of the starving population of China; and a carload of Utah flour, representing Relief Society wheat, was one of the first contributions received by San Francisco after the great earthquake and fire. In 1912 the Brigham Young University conferred upon Mrs. Wells the honorary degree of Doctor of Literature. In the same year, she was selected to unveil what is said to be the only monument erected to birds in the world—the Seagull Monument on Temple Square. Besides her editorial work and her extensive correspondence, Mrs. Wells found time to write hundreds of poems. These have been collected and published in separate volumes. She was founder and first president of the Utah Woman’s Press Club, and later Honorary President. This body of cultured women took the initiative in the securing of the doctor’s degree which was conferred upon Mrs. Wells ten years ago, by the Brigham Young University. The impressive ceremony of conferring upon the distinguished little lady the cap and gown included an affectionate address and tribute from President Joseph F. Smith, President of the Board of Trustees. The Press Club women also took up the publication of Mrs. Well’s poems, Musings and Memories, which was carried to a successful issue and which remains the delicate intimate revealings of a refined, sensitive soul. Her remarkable recollection of important events connected with the early history of the Church and of the state, and her intellectual attainments and charming personality, ever made the little woman a personage of much interest to prominent persons from all parts of the world. The various buildings in which she has had her office and latterly her apartment in the Hotel Utah, were the Mecca of distinguished visitors, statesmen, soldiers, authors, and publicists, writers, to say nothing of thousands of admiring friends; and her “visitors’ book” probably shows a greater number of interesting autographs headed by the United States presidents and foreign officials, of the highest ranks, than any other like volume in the west. Her birthday receptions tendered for years by the general board of the Relief Society have also been gatherings at which the state’s greatest, distinguished citizens have gathered to pay their respect to “Aunt Em.” Even of late, despite her advanced years, few public gatherings of importance were regarded as complete without the presence of the wonderful little woman who for so many years was identified with the leadership of the great organization of 50,000 women of the Latter-day Saint Church. Her last public appearance was at the reception in honor of her 93rd birthday, given by the Relief Society Board at the Hotel Utah, February 28. The later years of her life have been spent, at her own desire, at the Hotel, on the spot where nearly three-quarters of a century ago, she first camped upon arriving in the Great Salt Lake Valley. A month ago she removed to the residence of her daughter, Mrs. John Q. Cannon, where loving hands, and the tireless and devoted ministrations of her medical adviser, Dr. George F. Middleton, as well as scores of personal visits from her former associates, and her long time friends, have made her last days as comfortable and peaceful as possible. REORGANIZATION With the passing of President Emmeline B. Wells, and indeed before she departed this life, the Presidency and Twelve Apostles found it wise and expedient to reorganize the General Officers and Board of the Relief Society, owing to the long illness and general debility of President Emmeline B. Wells. With the reorganization quite a number of the members of the board who had labored long and faithfully with Mrs. Wells were released ; some because of age, others because of distance and absence, and some because of other cares and burdens which prevented active participation in the heavy work and responsibilities attendant upon the leaders of the Relief Society. With each sister who has been so released, beginning with our long loved and faithful Julina L. Smith and ending with her able and loyal daughter, Donnette Smith Kesler, the members so released carry with them, into their retirement or into other fields of activity, the love and fellowship of the authorities of the Church and of every member of the reorganized General Officers and Board. The names of Mrs. Julina L. Smith, Mrs. Sarah Jenne Cannon, Dr. Romania B. Penrose, Mrs. Emily S. Richards, Mrs. Julia P. M. Farnsworth, Mrs. Phebe Y. Beatie, Mrs. Ida S. Dusenberry, Mrs. Carrie S. Thomas, Mrs. Elizabeth S. Wilcox, Mrs. Rebecca Neibaur Nibley, Mrs. Elizabeth C. McCune, Mrs. Elizabeth C. Crismon. Miss Sarah Eddington, call the roll of the released noble women who have rendered distinguished services, not only in the Relief Society itself but in every line of domestic, social and spiritual endeavor known to the women of this people. Each has been valiant in testimony and strong in courage, patient in affliction and filled with the love of Christ and his work upon the earth. We part with them with mingled joy and regret and look confidently to Eternity to catch up the broken threads of our sweet association and knit them into a perfect companionship that will persist through the endless ages of eternity. There have been five general presidents of the Relief Society. The first was Emma Hale Smith who was in office from 1842-46; the second was Eliza R. Snow, who was president from 1856-87; then came Mrs. Zina D. H. Young, who was president from 18871901. Mrs. Bathsheba W. Smith from 1901-1910; President Emmeline B. Wells was chosen by President Joseph F. Smith, in October, 1910, to act as General President of the Relief Society, but she did not call her board together nor qualify by action of that General Board until May 25, 1911; Mrs. Clarissa Smith Williams was chosen by the Presidency and Twelve on April 1, 1921, and becomes General President of the Relief Society. It is an interesting fact to know that, with the exception of our late President Emmeline B. Wells, all of the General Presidents of the Relief Society have belonged to the Prophet Joseph Smith's family, either by birth or marriage. |
President Emmeline B. Wells
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"President Clarissa S. Williams Visits Mexico." Relief Society Magazine. January 1923. pg. 26-27.
President Clarissa S. Williams Visits Mexico
President Clarissa S. Williams has visited, recently, the Juarez stake of old Mexico, the first time iri eleven years that a member of the General Board of Relief Society has attended a conference of this stake, because of the unsettled conditions of the country during -the revolutionary times.
President Williams was a member of President Heber J. Grant’s party which visited, also, the St. Joseph and the Maricopa stakes. The party 'was comprised of President and Mrs. Heber J. Grant, and. daughter Emily, together with the following representatives of the Church organizations: Elder Melvin J. Ballard, of the Council of the Twelve and the Y. M. M. I. A.; President Clarissa S. Williams, Relief Society; George D. Pyper, Sunday School; Mary Connelly, Y. L. M. I. A.; President Louie B. Felt, and Jane Crawford, Primary Association; Elder Owen Woodruff, a recently returned missionary, was also a member of the party.
The conference was held at Juarez, on November 15-16. Mrs. Fannie C. Harper, president of the Juarez stake Relief Society, and her co-workers were overjoyed with a visitor from the General Board, and particularly in the opportunity of having the president meet with them and address the women of the stake. The meetings were held in the Juarez academy, and the sessions were all inspiring and spirited. The five wards were well represented at the convention, and all the ward presidents were in attendance. President Williams found that the women are devoted and loyal to the Relief Society, and to the Church itself. She reports that the Mexican territory, through which she passed, bears evident marks, in its devastated and desolate appearance, of the revolution.
Preceding the conference in Mexico, the Maricopa stake, in Arizona, Was visited on November 11-12. A two-day confererence was held at Mesa, and President Williams found the Relief Society organizations of this stake in excellent condition. During the year there has been an increase in membership, and an added interest in the lesson work and the welfare activities.
Leaving Maricopa, the party of visitors went to El Paso, Texas, where two meetings were held on November 13. From El Paso, they proceeded by train to Demming, thence by auto to Juarez.
En route to Juarez a meeting was held at Dublan on November 14, which was greatly appreciated by the Saints there. The meeting was held in a house which was built by the 'Relief Society and which is now the only meeting house in the town. The ward chapel was destroyed during the revolution.
On the return trip from Mexico, a conference of the St. Joseph stake was held on November 18-19, at Thatcher, Arizona. The Relief Societies there are officered by energetic women. It was found that their records and reports are well kept. The conference was successful, and it was evident that a good spirit exists throughout the stake.
At Thatcher, President Williams left the party and went to Phoenix to visit her niece, Miss Cheever, of Provo. While in Phoenix, President Williams addressed a Relief Society meeting of the Phoenix ward.
On the trip, President Williams attended twenty-seven meetings and two socials. She traveled 3,400 miles by train and 500 miles by auto. Although the journey was strenuous, she enjoyed the trip very much. She appreciated the opportunity afforded her of visiting these remote organizations, and it was a joy and satisfaction to her to see the women carrying on the work and perpetuating the ideals of the Relief Society.
President Clarissa S. Williams Visits Mexico
President Clarissa S. Williams has visited, recently, the Juarez stake of old Mexico, the first time iri eleven years that a member of the General Board of Relief Society has attended a conference of this stake, because of the unsettled conditions of the country during -the revolutionary times.
President Williams was a member of President Heber J. Grant’s party which visited, also, the St. Joseph and the Maricopa stakes. The party 'was comprised of President and Mrs. Heber J. Grant, and. daughter Emily, together with the following representatives of the Church organizations: Elder Melvin J. Ballard, of the Council of the Twelve and the Y. M. M. I. A.; President Clarissa S. Williams, Relief Society; George D. Pyper, Sunday School; Mary Connelly, Y. L. M. I. A.; President Louie B. Felt, and Jane Crawford, Primary Association; Elder Owen Woodruff, a recently returned missionary, was also a member of the party.
The conference was held at Juarez, on November 15-16. Mrs. Fannie C. Harper, president of the Juarez stake Relief Society, and her co-workers were overjoyed with a visitor from the General Board, and particularly in the opportunity of having the president meet with them and address the women of the stake. The meetings were held in the Juarez academy, and the sessions were all inspiring and spirited. The five wards were well represented at the convention, and all the ward presidents were in attendance. President Williams found that the women are devoted and loyal to the Relief Society, and to the Church itself. She reports that the Mexican territory, through which she passed, bears evident marks, in its devastated and desolate appearance, of the revolution.
Preceding the conference in Mexico, the Maricopa stake, in Arizona, Was visited on November 11-12. A two-day confererence was held at Mesa, and President Williams found the Relief Society organizations of this stake in excellent condition. During the year there has been an increase in membership, and an added interest in the lesson work and the welfare activities.
Leaving Maricopa, the party of visitors went to El Paso, Texas, where two meetings were held on November 13. From El Paso, they proceeded by train to Demming, thence by auto to Juarez.
En route to Juarez a meeting was held at Dublan on November 14, which was greatly appreciated by the Saints there. The meeting was held in a house which was built by the 'Relief Society and which is now the only meeting house in the town. The ward chapel was destroyed during the revolution.
On the return trip from Mexico, a conference of the St. Joseph stake was held on November 18-19, at Thatcher, Arizona. The Relief Societies there are officered by energetic women. It was found that their records and reports are well kept. The conference was successful, and it was evident that a good spirit exists throughout the stake.
At Thatcher, President Williams left the party and went to Phoenix to visit her niece, Miss Cheever, of Provo. While in Phoenix, President Williams addressed a Relief Society meeting of the Phoenix ward.
On the trip, President Williams attended twenty-seven meetings and two socials. She traveled 3,400 miles by train and 500 miles by auto. Although the journey was strenuous, she enjoyed the trip very much. She appreciated the opportunity afforded her of visiting these remote organizations, and it was a joy and satisfaction to her to see the women carrying on the work and perpetuating the ideals of the Relief Society.
Connelly, Mary E. "Clarissa Smith Williams." Relief Society Magazine. April 1923. pg. 163-165.
Clarissa Smith Williams
Mary E. Connelly
Clarissa Smith Williams is numbered among those who, are blest in being well born. Her mother, Susan E. West, is a woman of sterling qualities, honest, faithful, physically strong, mentally awake, and spiritually alert. Her father, President George A. Smith, a pioneer of 1847, was a leader among his people, intelligent, kindly, sincere. With such parentage the daughter thus started life with desirable characteristics. She was born April 21, 1859, in the Historian’s office in Salt Lake City, then the home of her parents.
She had a happy childhood, for the spirit of love and peace reigned in her home. She loved to read and early evidenced a keen delight in study. She was given the best education the schools of the territory afforded. When fourteen she served as a pupil teacher in the old Social Hall, taught by Mary E. Cook. That same year the family moved to the building located on the southwest corner of Second West and First North, later known as the knitting factory. There was a very large room in this house; here Clarissa when only fifteen organized and conducted a private school. She closed her school the following year in order that’ she might take advantage of the Normal Course offered by the University of Utah. She was a member of the first Normal Class, and was graduated in 1875 from that institution. After leaving her alma mater she taught in the schools of Parowan, Taylorsville, and Salt Lake City.
W. N. Williams was attracted to Miss Smith the first time he saw her. His admiration grew as he looked at her from a distance and increased rapidly, when after a long period of waiting he had the joy of meeting and courting her. One day between 11 and 12 o’clock Brother Williams was called and set apart to go on a mission and was instructed to be ready to leave for his field of labor the following morning. That night, on the 17th of July, 1877, when the groom was twenty-seven years old, Clarissa Williams became his bride, in the Seventeenth ward. She continued teaching while her husband was in the mission field.
This has been an ideally lovely marriage. The two have always been lovers and their devotion and appreciation for each other have ripened and grown even stronger with the years. Eleven children have blessed their union, seven of whom are now living. In addition to her children Sister Williams has eight grandsons and one granddaughter.
Sister Williams has been a remarkably successful mother, always ruling by love. Hospitality has been a characteristic of the home. Well-known people from other lands and climes as well as those of their home city have enjoyed the good-will and generosity that has ever been extended to their guests.
It has been said that leaders are born and not made. Clarissa Smith gave evidence early of leadership. As a girl she was a leader among her associates. Her friends tell with what queenly dignity she took the part of leading lady in dramas of those days.
From her girlhood she was active and faithful in Sunday School and Primary. When sixteen she began her labors in the Relief Society as assistant visiting teacher. Later she served as secretary and president of the Seventeenth ward Relief Society. She served as assistant >secretary of the old Salt Lake stake and when it was divided she became its president. On November 17, 1901, she was appointed treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the general Relief Society. At the General Conference of the Church, April, 1911, she was sustained as First Counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells, and on April 2, 1921, she became the President of the organization.
She came to this high position well fitted to preside. She knew from ward, stake and general work the scope and needs of the Relief Society; she saw wherein it was strong and where it needed strengthening. Then, too, she brought with her the qualifications of presidency: well educated, progressive, of clear comprehension, strong, willing to consider both sides of questions, anxious and able to give all the time necessary for carrying on the work entrusted to her charge. Thus equipped it is no wonder that the organization has made rapid headway under her direction.
On February 7, 1923, she was sustained as editor of the Relief Society Magazine.
Sister Williams has ever been interested in women’s work. She has attended sessions of the National Council of Women in New Orleans, and Toledo, Ohio. In May, 1914, she went to the International Congress of Women in Rome, Italy, being one of nine delegates from the United States to that conference. At the close of its two weeks sessions she and her husband toured Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, England, and Wales. She is a charter member of the Daughters of the Pioneers and served as the first historian of that body. She is an active member of the Daughters of the Revolution and has been treasurer and regent. She is also a member of the Author’s Club and the Friendship Circle. During the war, Mrs. Williams was a member of the executive committee of the State Council-of Defense, and chairman of Women’s Work of the Council.
Sister Williams has been a beautiful homemaker. She is equable in disposition and prosperity changes her not at all. She is adaptable to any condition and serenely meets all problems. Generous, free, kind, considerate, poised, refined, cultured—these qualities make her admired and loved wherever she goes. She has been a dutiful daughter, a kind, helpful, considerate, sweet, loving, devoted wife and mother. As a public worker she has even been efficient, willing and faithful. Fortunate are they who know her and can call her friend; blessed are they who work under her guidance!
Clarissa Smith Williams
Mary E. Connelly
Clarissa Smith Williams is numbered among those who, are blest in being well born. Her mother, Susan E. West, is a woman of sterling qualities, honest, faithful, physically strong, mentally awake, and spiritually alert. Her father, President George A. Smith, a pioneer of 1847, was a leader among his people, intelligent, kindly, sincere. With such parentage the daughter thus started life with desirable characteristics. She was born April 21, 1859, in the Historian’s office in Salt Lake City, then the home of her parents.
She had a happy childhood, for the spirit of love and peace reigned in her home. She loved to read and early evidenced a keen delight in study. She was given the best education the schools of the territory afforded. When fourteen she served as a pupil teacher in the old Social Hall, taught by Mary E. Cook. That same year the family moved to the building located on the southwest corner of Second West and First North, later known as the knitting factory. There was a very large room in this house; here Clarissa when only fifteen organized and conducted a private school. She closed her school the following year in order that’ she might take advantage of the Normal Course offered by the University of Utah. She was a member of the first Normal Class, and was graduated in 1875 from that institution. After leaving her alma mater she taught in the schools of Parowan, Taylorsville, and Salt Lake City.
W. N. Williams was attracted to Miss Smith the first time he saw her. His admiration grew as he looked at her from a distance and increased rapidly, when after a long period of waiting he had the joy of meeting and courting her. One day between 11 and 12 o’clock Brother Williams was called and set apart to go on a mission and was instructed to be ready to leave for his field of labor the following morning. That night, on the 17th of July, 1877, when the groom was twenty-seven years old, Clarissa Williams became his bride, in the Seventeenth ward. She continued teaching while her husband was in the mission field.
This has been an ideally lovely marriage. The two have always been lovers and their devotion and appreciation for each other have ripened and grown even stronger with the years. Eleven children have blessed their union, seven of whom are now living. In addition to her children Sister Williams has eight grandsons and one granddaughter.
Sister Williams has been a remarkably successful mother, always ruling by love. Hospitality has been a characteristic of the home. Well-known people from other lands and climes as well as those of their home city have enjoyed the good-will and generosity that has ever been extended to their guests.
It has been said that leaders are born and not made. Clarissa Smith gave evidence early of leadership. As a girl she was a leader among her associates. Her friends tell with what queenly dignity she took the part of leading lady in dramas of those days.
From her girlhood she was active and faithful in Sunday School and Primary. When sixteen she began her labors in the Relief Society as assistant visiting teacher. Later she served as secretary and president of the Seventeenth ward Relief Society. She served as assistant >secretary of the old Salt Lake stake and when it was divided she became its president. On November 17, 1901, she was appointed treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the general Relief Society. At the General Conference of the Church, April, 1911, she was sustained as First Counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells, and on April 2, 1921, she became the President of the organization.
She came to this high position well fitted to preside. She knew from ward, stake and general work the scope and needs of the Relief Society; she saw wherein it was strong and where it needed strengthening. Then, too, she brought with her the qualifications of presidency: well educated, progressive, of clear comprehension, strong, willing to consider both sides of questions, anxious and able to give all the time necessary for carrying on the work entrusted to her charge. Thus equipped it is no wonder that the organization has made rapid headway under her direction.
On February 7, 1923, she was sustained as editor of the Relief Society Magazine.
Sister Williams has ever been interested in women’s work. She has attended sessions of the National Council of Women in New Orleans, and Toledo, Ohio. In May, 1914, she went to the International Congress of Women in Rome, Italy, being one of nine delegates from the United States to that conference. At the close of its two weeks sessions she and her husband toured Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, England, and Wales. She is a charter member of the Daughters of the Pioneers and served as the first historian of that body. She is an active member of the Daughters of the Revolution and has been treasurer and regent. She is also a member of the Author’s Club and the Friendship Circle. During the war, Mrs. Williams was a member of the executive committee of the State Council-of Defense, and chairman of Women’s Work of the Council.
Sister Williams has been a beautiful homemaker. She is equable in disposition and prosperity changes her not at all. She is adaptable to any condition and serenely meets all problems. Generous, free, kind, considerate, poised, refined, cultured—these qualities make her admired and loved wherever she goes. She has been a dutiful daughter, a kind, helpful, considerate, sweet, loving, devoted wife and mother. As a public worker she has even been efficient, willing and faithful. Fortunate are they who know her and can call her friend; blessed are they who work under her guidance!
Tingey, Martha Horne. "Tributes to the Relief Society." Young Woman's Journal. March 1924. pg. 126-129.
Tributes to the Relief Society
(In honor of the 82nd anniversary of its organization)
By President Martha Horne Tinge y and Some of our Stake Presidents
MY conversion to the Relief Society began at a very early age. Memory goes back to childhood days when my mother was made President of the Relief Society in the Fourteenth Ward, Salt Lake City. It seemed such a wonderful thing to me for her to be called to a position of that kind. She had a large family to take care of, had always been a devoted wife and mother, was naturally such a home-maker, that it seemed a big thing to me for her to be the President of an organization. It was not long before some of the girls in the ward became interested in what their mothers were doing to help the poor, and asked the privilege of having a little Society where we could meet and sew carpet rags and patch quilts or any other thing that we were able to do. Permission was granted and we enjoyed the work very much.
One phase of Relief Society work in those early days I shall never forget. It gave me my first lesson in the study of human nature. The lady chosen as treasurer of the Society did not have room to spare in her home for the donations of groceries, etc., which the members contributed for the relief of those in need, so Mother had them taken to our house. One of my duties, as a child, was to go to the attic room where these provisions were kept and weigh out and put in packages the allowances for the old ladies who came regularly for their groceries. Some of them were so sweet and grateful for everything. I have even seen them kiss Mother’s hand sometimes when she gave them their little packages of tea, sugar, rice, flour, etc. Others were not so appreciative and many time would find fault and grumble, but it always turned out that they were the ones who were the least in need of help.
I have appreciated more than I can express the privilege I had of becoming well acquainted with the noble women who stood at the head of the Relief Society in those early days. It was surely a labor of sacrifice and of service to mankind then as it is today. The sick had to be ministered to, the dead taken care of and laid away neatly dressed, and most of the clothing had to be made by hand as the sewing machine was almost unknown here at that early day. I have a photograph in my home of many of the leading women in the work at that time: Sisters Eliza R. Snow, Zina D. Young, Marian Hyde, Bathsheba W. Smith, Jane S. Richards, M. Isabella Horne, Sarah M. Kimball, Emmeline B. Wells, Elmina S. Taylor, Phebe Woodruff, which I would not like to part with. The organization has been carried forward successfully by those who have followed in the footsteps of those leaders until it has become one of the most efficient charitable organizations in the world.
May the Lord bless President Clarissa Williams and her corp of capable officers and all who are working in this great cause the world over.
IT is a pleasure for the Y. L. M. I. A. to extend greetings to the Relief Society. Eighty two years have now passed since the Prophet Joseph Smith was inspired to form this organization. It has grown very rapidly in membership but its growth in service has been even greater, and has extended throughout the Church, wherever there was need of a helping hand or a sympathetic heart.
The Relief Society Workers of Tooele Stake are particularly energetic in their efforts to carry on the work in all its phases of activity and stand ever ready to render willing service where help is needed, in caring for the sick, visiting the distressed and working for the general welfare of the community. They are entitled to the love and gratitude of all Latter-day Saints.
Carrie Wrathall,
President Tooele Stake.
A MOTHER’S love to guide,
A sister’s hand to soothe,
All joys are magnified,
Our grief and sorrow smoothed.
A beautiful spirit of service is exemplified in the splendid work of the Relief Society. When every one is well and happy their cheering visits are a blessing, but when sorrow and want is found their hearts are touched and everything to comfort and help is done.
I have seen their work in sickness, death, and poverty. One incident related by Sister Hannah Adams now seventy-five years old, is a sample of the good accomplished.
She was the first Ward President west of the Snake River in Blackfoot Stake. Houses were few and scattered. It was mid-winter when she received word that a family from the east, traveling through the country seeking a new home, were in distress. The snow was deep. Loading her sleigh with food and clothing she set off across the desert. She found them camped in a deserted log cabin sorely in need of help. The father had gathered wood and a small fire was burning.
The children were cold and hungry. That night another little one was added to their number. O, how happy our sister was to feed and clothe the poor hungry children, to bring comfort and consolation to the distressed, suffering mother, and new hope and encouragement to the sad father. To them she was surely an angel of mercy.
Althea Bitton,
President Blackfoot Stake.
I AM thankful for the opportunity of paying a tribute of appreciation to our Relief Society.
In thinking over the wonderful work of that splendid organization so many great and noble deeds rise before me, that it seems almost impossible to single out any one as the greatest.
Our Relief Society in Sevier Stake has worked out a plan for a Scripture Reading Contest, that has proven very successful. Last year the women were asked to keep a record of all reading done from our standard Books, and report each month the number of chapters read. At the end of the year 31,219 chapters had been reported. Three sisters had read the Bible through, fifteen, the Book of Mormon, nine, the Doctrine and Covenants, and eighteen, the Pearl of Great Price.
This year the reading includes all church works.
May our M. I. A. workers ever hold to the ideals of the Relief Society
Ella Parker Ogden, President Sevier Stake.
THE Relief Society is called the mother of the Associations. The Prophet Joseph Smith was truly inspired when he organized that Society. It has been a blessing to every ward in the Church and the youth of Zion should respect it.
Its membership is made up principally of our mothers and grandmothers who have braved many hardships and have always been ready to help those in need, to lend a helping hand in sickness and a comforting word in sorrow. May they be blessed in their labors of love.
Ida E. Turley,
President Juarez Stake.
IN my opinion there is no organization in the Church that does as much to brighten and cheer the poor, the aged, the lonely, the helpless, and the sick as the Relief Society. At holiday time baskets of the season’s good things, and also money, are sent out to those in need. And to the aged and the shut-ins a potted plant in bloom is sent which makes their hearts glad. Just the thought that they were remembered!
The County Infirmary is visited every so often and a nice program is given. At holiday time a box is given to each one in remembrance of the holiday. This kind act makes them very happy.
At all times Relief Society workers are ever ready to give a helping hand in case of sickness, death or distress of any kind and they have been helpers indeed to Saints in need far across the sea.
Alice H. Mack,
President Weber Stake.
A WONDERFUL privilege I deem it to have the opportunity of paying tribute to the great Relief Society cause. Surely the Lord favored the women of Zion above all other women in giving to us such an organization, and He is continuing to favor and bless us with inspired, noble-minded women to carry on the great work and labor of love.
Oh what a joy and blessing it must be to those so vitally interested to know that through their faithful efforts, and their power of precept and example, many souls are helped along life’s great highway.
May our Heavenly Father continue to inspire the leaders both general, stake and local that their ideals maybe fully realized in this great organization.
Pearl C. Adamson, President Blaine Stake.
Tributes to the Relief Society
(In honor of the 82nd anniversary of its organization)
By President Martha Horne Tinge y and Some of our Stake Presidents
MY conversion to the Relief Society began at a very early age. Memory goes back to childhood days when my mother was made President of the Relief Society in the Fourteenth Ward, Salt Lake City. It seemed such a wonderful thing to me for her to be called to a position of that kind. She had a large family to take care of, had always been a devoted wife and mother, was naturally such a home-maker, that it seemed a big thing to me for her to be the President of an organization. It was not long before some of the girls in the ward became interested in what their mothers were doing to help the poor, and asked the privilege of having a little Society where we could meet and sew carpet rags and patch quilts or any other thing that we were able to do. Permission was granted and we enjoyed the work very much.
One phase of Relief Society work in those early days I shall never forget. It gave me my first lesson in the study of human nature. The lady chosen as treasurer of the Society did not have room to spare in her home for the donations of groceries, etc., which the members contributed for the relief of those in need, so Mother had them taken to our house. One of my duties, as a child, was to go to the attic room where these provisions were kept and weigh out and put in packages the allowances for the old ladies who came regularly for their groceries. Some of them were so sweet and grateful for everything. I have even seen them kiss Mother’s hand sometimes when she gave them their little packages of tea, sugar, rice, flour, etc. Others were not so appreciative and many time would find fault and grumble, but it always turned out that they were the ones who were the least in need of help.
I have appreciated more than I can express the privilege I had of becoming well acquainted with the noble women who stood at the head of the Relief Society in those early days. It was surely a labor of sacrifice and of service to mankind then as it is today. The sick had to be ministered to, the dead taken care of and laid away neatly dressed, and most of the clothing had to be made by hand as the sewing machine was almost unknown here at that early day. I have a photograph in my home of many of the leading women in the work at that time: Sisters Eliza R. Snow, Zina D. Young, Marian Hyde, Bathsheba W. Smith, Jane S. Richards, M. Isabella Horne, Sarah M. Kimball, Emmeline B. Wells, Elmina S. Taylor, Phebe Woodruff, which I would not like to part with. The organization has been carried forward successfully by those who have followed in the footsteps of those leaders until it has become one of the most efficient charitable organizations in the world.
May the Lord bless President Clarissa Williams and her corp of capable officers and all who are working in this great cause the world over.
IT is a pleasure for the Y. L. M. I. A. to extend greetings to the Relief Society. Eighty two years have now passed since the Prophet Joseph Smith was inspired to form this organization. It has grown very rapidly in membership but its growth in service has been even greater, and has extended throughout the Church, wherever there was need of a helping hand or a sympathetic heart.
The Relief Society Workers of Tooele Stake are particularly energetic in their efforts to carry on the work in all its phases of activity and stand ever ready to render willing service where help is needed, in caring for the sick, visiting the distressed and working for the general welfare of the community. They are entitled to the love and gratitude of all Latter-day Saints.
Carrie Wrathall,
President Tooele Stake.
A MOTHER’S love to guide,
A sister’s hand to soothe,
All joys are magnified,
Our grief and sorrow smoothed.
A beautiful spirit of service is exemplified in the splendid work of the Relief Society. When every one is well and happy their cheering visits are a blessing, but when sorrow and want is found their hearts are touched and everything to comfort and help is done.
I have seen their work in sickness, death, and poverty. One incident related by Sister Hannah Adams now seventy-five years old, is a sample of the good accomplished.
She was the first Ward President west of the Snake River in Blackfoot Stake. Houses were few and scattered. It was mid-winter when she received word that a family from the east, traveling through the country seeking a new home, were in distress. The snow was deep. Loading her sleigh with food and clothing she set off across the desert. She found them camped in a deserted log cabin sorely in need of help. The father had gathered wood and a small fire was burning.
The children were cold and hungry. That night another little one was added to their number. O, how happy our sister was to feed and clothe the poor hungry children, to bring comfort and consolation to the distressed, suffering mother, and new hope and encouragement to the sad father. To them she was surely an angel of mercy.
Althea Bitton,
President Blackfoot Stake.
I AM thankful for the opportunity of paying a tribute of appreciation to our Relief Society.
In thinking over the wonderful work of that splendid organization so many great and noble deeds rise before me, that it seems almost impossible to single out any one as the greatest.
Our Relief Society in Sevier Stake has worked out a plan for a Scripture Reading Contest, that has proven very successful. Last year the women were asked to keep a record of all reading done from our standard Books, and report each month the number of chapters read. At the end of the year 31,219 chapters had been reported. Three sisters had read the Bible through, fifteen, the Book of Mormon, nine, the Doctrine and Covenants, and eighteen, the Pearl of Great Price.
This year the reading includes all church works.
May our M. I. A. workers ever hold to the ideals of the Relief Society
Ella Parker Ogden, President Sevier Stake.
THE Relief Society is called the mother of the Associations. The Prophet Joseph Smith was truly inspired when he organized that Society. It has been a blessing to every ward in the Church and the youth of Zion should respect it.
Its membership is made up principally of our mothers and grandmothers who have braved many hardships and have always been ready to help those in need, to lend a helping hand in sickness and a comforting word in sorrow. May they be blessed in their labors of love.
Ida E. Turley,
President Juarez Stake.
IN my opinion there is no organization in the Church that does as much to brighten and cheer the poor, the aged, the lonely, the helpless, and the sick as the Relief Society. At holiday time baskets of the season’s good things, and also money, are sent out to those in need. And to the aged and the shut-ins a potted plant in bloom is sent which makes their hearts glad. Just the thought that they were remembered!
The County Infirmary is visited every so often and a nice program is given. At holiday time a box is given to each one in remembrance of the holiday. This kind act makes them very happy.
At all times Relief Society workers are ever ready to give a helping hand in case of sickness, death or distress of any kind and they have been helpers indeed to Saints in need far across the sea.
Alice H. Mack,
President Weber Stake.
A WONDERFUL privilege I deem it to have the opportunity of paying tribute to the great Relief Society cause. Surely the Lord favored the women of Zion above all other women in giving to us such an organization, and He is continuing to favor and bless us with inspired, noble-minded women to carry on the great work and labor of love.
Oh what a joy and blessing it must be to those so vitally interested to know that through their faithful efforts, and their power of precept and example, many souls are helped along life’s great highway.
May our Heavenly Father continue to inspire the leaders both general, stake and local that their ideals maybe fully realized in this great organization.
Pearl C. Adamson, President Blaine Stake.
"President Williams' Birthday." Relief Society Magazine. June 1924. pg. 323-324.
President Williams' Birthday
April 21 marked the anniversary of President Williams’ birth. The Magazine extends to her hearty felicitations, and trusts that there will be many returns of her birthday anniversary.
THE HOTEL UTAH BANQUET
The banquet and reception tendered by the stake and mission presidents to the members of the General Board on the evening of April 3, 1924, proved satisfactory and enjoyable in every respect. Chairman, Myrtle B. Shurtliff, president of Liberty stake, and the committee, of Salt Lake City stake presidents that worked with her, must be highly gratified at the results of their far-seeing and capable planning.
The members of the General Board stood in line on the Mezzanine floor of the Hotel Utah from 7:15 p. m. until the hour of the banquet. Each member received from the committee, a beautiful bouquet of flowers that so greatly enhanced her appearance that a member of a stake Board, who saw them pass into the banquet room remarked that it looked like a bridal procession.
The tables were lavishly decorated with gold and white flowers, carrying out the Relief Society colors. The place cards, particularly attractive, were small white cards bearing on their face, in gold letters, not only the name of the individual designed to occupy the place, but a monogram of the National Women’s
Relief Society, and under it the Relief Society motto, Charity Never Faileth; also the date, Hotel Utah, April 3, 1924.
The printed programs are in keeping with the place cards. The outside cover bears these words, “National Women’s Relief Society, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Banquet and Reception, Complimentary to the Officers and Members of the General Board, given by the Relief Society Stake and Mis¬sion Presidents, Hotel Utah, Salt Lake City, Thursday, April Third, Nineteen Hundred Twenty-four.” On the first page is a photograph of President Clarissa Smith Williams. This is followed by a well chosen menu. On the opposite side is the program of music and toasts. The next page contains the names of officers and members of the General Board and names of the committee on arrangements consisting of the presidents of Liberty, Granite, Ensign, Salt Lake, and Pioneer stakes. The page following bears the names of stake presidents, ninety in number, and the last page contains the names of the sixteen mis¬sion presidents.
The musical features of the program were highly attractive. The Ladies Quartette from the University of Utah, in its select numbers, was very much appreciated, the quality and the blending of the voices being particularly pleasing. The artistic rendition of the numbers of Miss Margaret Summerhays will last in the memory of those who listened to her, for a long time. Mrs. Elsie B. Alder, in her new role as toastmistress, was pleasing and entertaining in her introductions, interspersed as they were with snatches of humor, sometimes couched in verse and sometimes in story. Mrs. Laura J. Adamson, president of Blaine stake, responded to the toast. Our President; Mrs. Katherine Romney Stewart, president of Los Angeles stake, The General Board; Mrs. Evelyn Lyman, president of Union stake, Stakes and Mis¬takes; and Mrs. Amy Brown Lyman, A Vision of the Future.
We had hoped to include the toasts in this issue of the Magazine, but we are not in possession of a sufficient number at this writing to do so. Grace was offered by Counselor Louise Y. Robison, and President Clarissa Smith Williams made a response after the toast, Our President. Counselor Jennie B. Knight’s response followed the toast on behalf of the General Board. Both President Williams and Counselor Jennie B. Knight- expressed appreciation for the entertainment of the evening, so effective in the perfection of its details, and so kindly provided by the stake and mission presidents of the Relief Society.
President Williams' Birthday
April 21 marked the anniversary of President Williams’ birth. The Magazine extends to her hearty felicitations, and trusts that there will be many returns of her birthday anniversary.
THE HOTEL UTAH BANQUET
The banquet and reception tendered by the stake and mission presidents to the members of the General Board on the evening of April 3, 1924, proved satisfactory and enjoyable in every respect. Chairman, Myrtle B. Shurtliff, president of Liberty stake, and the committee, of Salt Lake City stake presidents that worked with her, must be highly gratified at the results of their far-seeing and capable planning.
The members of the General Board stood in line on the Mezzanine floor of the Hotel Utah from 7:15 p. m. until the hour of the banquet. Each member received from the committee, a beautiful bouquet of flowers that so greatly enhanced her appearance that a member of a stake Board, who saw them pass into the banquet room remarked that it looked like a bridal procession.
The tables were lavishly decorated with gold and white flowers, carrying out the Relief Society colors. The place cards, particularly attractive, were small white cards bearing on their face, in gold letters, not only the name of the individual designed to occupy the place, but a monogram of the National Women’s
Relief Society, and under it the Relief Society motto, Charity Never Faileth; also the date, Hotel Utah, April 3, 1924.
The printed programs are in keeping with the place cards. The outside cover bears these words, “National Women’s Relief Society, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Banquet and Reception, Complimentary to the Officers and Members of the General Board, given by the Relief Society Stake and Mis¬sion Presidents, Hotel Utah, Salt Lake City, Thursday, April Third, Nineteen Hundred Twenty-four.” On the first page is a photograph of President Clarissa Smith Williams. This is followed by a well chosen menu. On the opposite side is the program of music and toasts. The next page contains the names of officers and members of the General Board and names of the committee on arrangements consisting of the presidents of Liberty, Granite, Ensign, Salt Lake, and Pioneer stakes. The page following bears the names of stake presidents, ninety in number, and the last page contains the names of the sixteen mis¬sion presidents.
The musical features of the program were highly attractive. The Ladies Quartette from the University of Utah, in its select numbers, was very much appreciated, the quality and the blending of the voices being particularly pleasing. The artistic rendition of the numbers of Miss Margaret Summerhays will last in the memory of those who listened to her, for a long time. Mrs. Elsie B. Alder, in her new role as toastmistress, was pleasing and entertaining in her introductions, interspersed as they were with snatches of humor, sometimes couched in verse and sometimes in story. Mrs. Laura J. Adamson, president of Blaine stake, responded to the toast. Our President; Mrs. Katherine Romney Stewart, president of Los Angeles stake, The General Board; Mrs. Evelyn Lyman, president of Union stake, Stakes and Mis¬takes; and Mrs. Amy Brown Lyman, A Vision of the Future.
We had hoped to include the toasts in this issue of the Magazine, but we are not in possession of a sufficient number at this writing to do so. Grace was offered by Counselor Louise Y. Robison, and President Clarissa Smith Williams made a response after the toast, Our President. Counselor Jennie B. Knight’s response followed the toast on behalf of the General Board. Both President Williams and Counselor Jennie B. Knight- expressed appreciation for the entertainment of the evening, so effective in the perfection of its details, and so kindly provided by the stake and mission presidents of the Relief Society.
Reynolds, Alice Louise. "Unveiling of President Williams' Portrait." Relief Society Magazine. July 1924. pg. 328-329.
Unveiling of President Williams' Portrait By Alice Louise Reynolds A pretty ceremony accompanied the unveiling of President Clarissa Smith Williams' portrait, Wednesday, April 30, 1924, at four o'clock, in the reception room of the General Board. All day long the beautiful new silk flag, first used at our recent conference, stood against the wall, apparently, concealing something. At four o'clock the members of the Board shifted their chairs, and presently Sister Williams' husband and her aged mother, Susan Smith, wife of President George A. Smith, entered the room, followed by a goodly representation of her family. Among them was an only granddaughter, little Josephine Darger. She stepped toward the flag, pulled a white ribbon, attached to one corner, and the portrait was revealed. Walking into the adjoining room and taking up a little green basket receptacle filled with Killarney roses, she brought them in and placed them on a little stand beneath the picture. The roses were selected by Mrs. Amy Whipple Evans, a member of the committee. Counselor Louise Y. Robison, chairman of the committee, made her report. This was followed by a tribute from Counselor Jennie B. Knight, and from the General Secretary, Mrs. Amy Brown Lyman, and from Emma A. Empey, Sarah McClellan, and Lotta Paul Baxter of the General Board. Honorable W. N. Williams, who has worked in conjunction with the committee, expressed his appreciation both for the quality of the portrait and the desire on the part of the Board that a picture of President Williams should be placed with the other presidents in the Board Room. It was a moment of real power and up-lift when the portrait came into view, revealing, as it does, so much of dignity and womanly poise. Many who have seen the portrait feel that Lee Greene Richards, the artist, has never excelled in his portrait painting, the portrait of President Williams. |
Unveiling of President Williams' Portrait
|
"President Williams Parts with Life Companion." Relief Society Magazine. February 1928. pg. 74-75.
President Williams Parts with her Life’s Companion
The heart-felt sympathy of the members of the General Board, all stake and ward officers, and members of the Relief Society the world over, goes out to President Clarissa Smith Williams in the great loss she has sustained in the death of her much beloved and devoted companion. For many months Senator Williams has been confined to his bed of suffering. All that skill and patient, loving hands could do to lighten his pain and give comfort during the period of his illness has been done. Chief among those who have ministered to him has been his beloved wife, assisted by their devoted daughter, Miss Bae Williams.
At the service Elder George Albert Smith expressed the idea that Brother Williams’ work, which marks a life of achievement, has been given that support that only a devoted and intelligent wife could give; consequently, his success was in a measure her success. In this regard what was true of Sister Williams was also true of Brother Williams. Senator Williams has shown the keenest interest in all of his wife’s public work. There was no detail too small for him to take note of. On the 15th day of December we had occasion to visit Sister Williams to
present to her the sketch for the new Magazine cover. She examined it and then said, “Take it in and let Brother Williams see it, for he has been waiting eagerly ever since he knew you were coming.” We carried it in to him. He made some comments in relation to it when suddenly he caught sight of the two Relief Society teachers at the door, then his eyes filled with tears, and in words scarcely audible he expressed his appreciation. Many members of the General Board will doubtless recall with what pride he took part in the unveiling of the oil painting of President Williams that now adorns the walls of the Board room. His tribute to his wife on that occasion glowed with admiration and sincere devotion. It must be a matter of the deepest satisfaction to her to realize that she and her husband have builded well, and that love and harmony, together with other Christian virtues, have united to make their union outstanding and beautiful.
President Williams’ co-workers in the great organization at whose head she stands, with marked graciousness and nobility, unite in extending to her and to her sons and daughters their love and sympathy in this hour of keen sorrow. They pray that the mellowing influence of our Father’s Spirit may abide with them to give comfort and all needed support. In extending our love and sympathy to our esteemed and much beloved leader we shall make use of Alfred Tennyson’s noted lines written to Queen Victoria on the occasion of the death of the Prince Consort:
“May all love,
His love, unseen but felt, o’ershadow thee,
The love of all thy sons encompass thee,
The love of all thy daughters cherish thee,
The love of all thy people comfort thee,
Till God’s love set thee at his side again!”
President Williams Parts with her Life’s Companion
The heart-felt sympathy of the members of the General Board, all stake and ward officers, and members of the Relief Society the world over, goes out to President Clarissa Smith Williams in the great loss she has sustained in the death of her much beloved and devoted companion. For many months Senator Williams has been confined to his bed of suffering. All that skill and patient, loving hands could do to lighten his pain and give comfort during the period of his illness has been done. Chief among those who have ministered to him has been his beloved wife, assisted by their devoted daughter, Miss Bae Williams.
At the service Elder George Albert Smith expressed the idea that Brother Williams’ work, which marks a life of achievement, has been given that support that only a devoted and intelligent wife could give; consequently, his success was in a measure her success. In this regard what was true of Sister Williams was also true of Brother Williams. Senator Williams has shown the keenest interest in all of his wife’s public work. There was no detail too small for him to take note of. On the 15th day of December we had occasion to visit Sister Williams to
present to her the sketch for the new Magazine cover. She examined it and then said, “Take it in and let Brother Williams see it, for he has been waiting eagerly ever since he knew you were coming.” We carried it in to him. He made some comments in relation to it when suddenly he caught sight of the two Relief Society teachers at the door, then his eyes filled with tears, and in words scarcely audible he expressed his appreciation. Many members of the General Board will doubtless recall with what pride he took part in the unveiling of the oil painting of President Williams that now adorns the walls of the Board room. His tribute to his wife on that occasion glowed with admiration and sincere devotion. It must be a matter of the deepest satisfaction to her to realize that she and her husband have builded well, and that love and harmony, together with other Christian virtues, have united to make their union outstanding and beautiful.
President Williams’ co-workers in the great organization at whose head she stands, with marked graciousness and nobility, unite in extending to her and to her sons and daughters their love and sympathy in this hour of keen sorrow. They pray that the mellowing influence of our Father’s Spirit may abide with them to give comfort and all needed support. In extending our love and sympathy to our esteemed and much beloved leader we shall make use of Alfred Tennyson’s noted lines written to Queen Victoria on the occasion of the death of the Prince Consort:
“May all love,
His love, unseen but felt, o’ershadow thee,
The love of all thy sons encompass thee,
The love of all thy daughters cherish thee,
The love of all thy people comfort thee,
Till God’s love set thee at his side again!”
"Letter to President Clarissa S. Williams." Relief Society Magazine. March 1928. pg. 119.
Letter to President Clarissa S. Williams
January 31, 1928
President Clarissa S. Williams,
1401 Sigsbee Avenue,
Salt Lake City, Utah.
Dear Sister Williams:
The sisters of the General Board of the Relief Society desire to express to you and yours at this sad hour, their fond affection and sincere sympathy. We know that words avail little in con¬veying the sentiments we truly feel for you and yours, as we contemplate the sunset of a career like that of Brother Williams; not terminated, but only transferred to a higher sphere of service. In the passing of Brother Williams, we too have lost a valued friend and wise advisor. All of his associates in the many activities of life, testify to the fact that “he was a friend to man.” It has been said that “it is a great gift, a divine gift, to be a friend, and perhaps it is the greatest thing one mortal can be towards another.” Brother Williams had a host of friends even at the time of life when men. are prone to feel that many of their friends have already passed beyond. We know him as a true gentleman, who lent dignity to every path he trod. He honored the many positions he filled and was a credit to his state and people. Modest and unassuming, yet public spirited, he did his part to build up and maintain the morality and integrity of the community in which he lived.
He has borne the burdens of life nobly, for no man achieves the place that Brother Williams occupied without bearing burdens. He has earned his rest, a rest that no one would deny him. The companion of his life, his sons and daughters no doubt feel that he has rounded out a beautiful life and is entitled to the reward of the faithful and the righteous.
Be of good cheer. Sorrow not. Could Brother Williams speak, he would say with the poet: “Let more attest, I have lived and seen God’s hand through a life time, and all was for the best.”
God’s blessings be upon you always,
Your sisters and your friends,
GENERAL BOARD OF RELIEF SOCIETY,
Annie Wells Cannon,
Alice L. Reynolds,
Lotta Paul Baxter,
Committee.
Note: This letter will be recorded in the minutes of the General Board of the Relief Society.
Letter to President Clarissa S. Williams
January 31, 1928
President Clarissa S. Williams,
1401 Sigsbee Avenue,
Salt Lake City, Utah.
Dear Sister Williams:
The sisters of the General Board of the Relief Society desire to express to you and yours at this sad hour, their fond affection and sincere sympathy. We know that words avail little in con¬veying the sentiments we truly feel for you and yours, as we contemplate the sunset of a career like that of Brother Williams; not terminated, but only transferred to a higher sphere of service. In the passing of Brother Williams, we too have lost a valued friend and wise advisor. All of his associates in the many activities of life, testify to the fact that “he was a friend to man.” It has been said that “it is a great gift, a divine gift, to be a friend, and perhaps it is the greatest thing one mortal can be towards another.” Brother Williams had a host of friends even at the time of life when men. are prone to feel that many of their friends have already passed beyond. We know him as a true gentleman, who lent dignity to every path he trod. He honored the many positions he filled and was a credit to his state and people. Modest and unassuming, yet public spirited, he did his part to build up and maintain the morality and integrity of the community in which he lived.
He has borne the burdens of life nobly, for no man achieves the place that Brother Williams occupied without bearing burdens. He has earned his rest, a rest that no one would deny him. The companion of his life, his sons and daughters no doubt feel that he has rounded out a beautiful life and is entitled to the reward of the faithful and the righteous.
Be of good cheer. Sorrow not. Could Brother Williams speak, he would say with the poet: “Let more attest, I have lived and seen God’s hand through a life time, and all was for the best.”
God’s blessings be upon you always,
Your sisters and your friends,
GENERAL BOARD OF RELIEF SOCIETY,
Annie Wells Cannon,
Alice L. Reynolds,
Lotta Paul Baxter,
Committee.
Note: This letter will be recorded in the minutes of the General Board of the Relief Society.
Lyman, Amy Brown. "Clarissa S. Williams." Relief Society Magazine. December 1928. pg. 638-643.
Clarissa S. Williams
By Mrs. Amy Brown Lyman
President Clarissa Smith Williams, sixth General President of the Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was released with honor at the General Conference of the Church on October 7, 1928. In presenting her release, President Heber J. Grant expressed his personal appreciation and the appreciation of the Church generally for the excellent administration of President Williams, and for her long and faithful service in the Relief Society.
President Williams’ release was not a surprise to those who attended the Relief Society conference on October 4. At that time, in her closing address, she stated that it was not her desire to remain in active service indefinitely, and that she might at any time retire as an officer in the organization. She called attention' to the fact that she has always advocated that Relief Society women do not hold office too long, as there are many capable women and offices should rotate.
Mrs. Williams was appointed General President of the Relief Society on April 1, 1921, and has served in this capacity seven and a half years. Previous to this appointment she held many positions of trust in the organization; in fact her service is unique in that it began so early in her life, has been continuous, and has comprehended such a variety of activities. At the age of 16 she was a visiting teacher. She was later secretary and then president of the 17th ward Relief Society. She served for a number of years as stake secretary of the old Salt Lake stake; and when this stake was divided into four stakes, she was made president of the division which retained the name of Salt Lake stake. On November 7, 1901, she was appointed a member of the General Board of Relief Society, and also treasurer of the board. At April conference of the Church in 1911, she was appointed first counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells. This position she held until the retirement of Mrs. Wells on April 1, 1921, when she was appointed General President.
In addition to her Church work President Williams has taken active interest in civic, patriotic, and community organizations. She is a charter member of the Utah Society of the Daughters of the Revolution, a charter member of the State Society of the Daughters of the Pioneers, a member of the Author’s Club and of the Friendship Circle. During the World War she served as a member of the Red Cross Civilian Relief Committee, and was state chairman of the Women’s Committee of the National Council of Defense.
In connection with her labors in the Relief Society, Mrs. Williams has traveled extensively among the stakes and missions of the Church. She has also represented her organization at various meetings of the National Council of Women of the United States; and in 1914 she attended the Quinquennial Meeting of the International Council of Women in Rome, Italy, where she was a United States National Council delegate.
The love and respect of the women of the Relief Society go with President Williams in her retirement. There was perhaps never an officer in any organization more greatly beloved and appreciated, or more honestly admired. As one stake president recently remarked, "She has been a true representation and embodiment of the ideals of the women of the organization.”
President Williams is first of all a Latter-day Saint, living up to the requirements of the Gospel, and putting into practice those things which she has advocated for others. She is also an excellent example of those who aim to live the Golden Rule. She has been most fortunate in her background and heritage—an illustrious daughter of an illustrious father. Like her father, President George A. Smith, she is a person with kindness of heart, breadth of vision, liberality of views, honesty of purpose, straightforwardness of action; she is wise in decision, brave and courageous. From her mother she inherited gentleness and mildness, which are always in evidence; but when occasion requires, she can arise with vigor and even aggression in defense of a principle or in defense of what seems to her the right. She is possessed of qualities of heart and mind which go to make up true womanhood, including, among others, rare charm, poise, and culture. She is an executive of rare ability, presiding at meetings with grace and dignity, conducting business with wisdom, fairness, and dispatch, and showing the greatest consideration, courtesy, and honor to her fellow-officers. It has been a joy and satisfaction to all who have served with her in her various official capacities.
The administration of Clarissa Smith Williams will always stand out as one of advancement and progress. Under the able leadership of herself and her associates the Relief Society has gone forward, making concerted effort to meet, as fully as possible, the needs of the day. Ever mindful of the original objects and purposes of the Society, the spirit of the work in every vital feature has been preserved. The past history and traditions have been honored and respected, and have ever been a guide. The unchangeable spiritual features have prevailed and have been fostered and emphasized. But the organization has not been satisfied to rest contentedly and solely on the laurels of the past, and in its educational, humanitarian, and practical work, it has aimed to take into consideration all recent advancement, to adjust itself to meet the new and changing needs of society, and to meet them in the most intelligent manner and with the most approved methods. It has realized that the old trial and error method is expensive and slow, and has made an effort to profit from the study, experience, and research of the day. It has taken into account the fact that, in health and welfare work, emphasis has shifted from efforts of cure to efforts of prevention, and in educational work from mere subject-matter to the study of the student himself and his behavior.
Some of the outstanding pieces of work fostered by President Williams are the systematic study of social problems. In connection with this topic a Social Service Department has been established at Relief Society headquarters which has served as a laboratory for demonstration and training; the centralization of the wheat fund and the consecration of the interest thereof to health and maternity work; and the establishment of the Relief Society Memorial Loan Funds.
With a view of improving the humanitarian work of the Society regular study in the field of social service has been introduced in every ward and branch. This study has included child welfare, poverty, disease, crime, employment, economic conditions, leisure-time activities, etc. In addition social service institutes have been held for the training of local workers and for the purpose of assisting them in solving some of their practical problems. For this work, a laboratory or department for experimental purposes and for training purposes has been established at Relief Society headquarters. Beginning in 1919, it has developed into a service unit, which is conducted according to the best standards of such work, and which meets some of the needs of the organization.
At the time of . the World War, a governmental ruling was made that no individual or group would be permitted to store food or food stuffs. The Relief Society wheat was everywhere converted into cash, and each ward that had previously had on hand a supply of wheat now had a cash wheat fund. The original purpose of storing grain was to help in times of scarcity or famine; and from the time of the inauguration of the movement in 1876 till the time of the World War, many of the wards in the Church had continuously a supply of wheat on hand. With a desire to best hold and preserve this great wheat trust fund for any future humanitarian emergency or need, and believing that in the meantime the interest of the fund might be used in conserving and saving human life—which would be in direct accord with the original purpose of the grain-saving movement— President Williams made the following recommendations: that the wheat trust fund be centralized in the Presiding Bishop’s Office, and that the interest accruing therefrom be used annually for health and maternity purposes. The recommendation was approved by the General Authorities of the Church and adopted by the women of the organization. Maternity bundles and cabinets have been established, clinics have been supported, and Relief Society women have co-operated freely with the various state health departments in carrying out the provisions of the Sheppard-Towner Act. The consolidation of the Relief Society wheat fund, and the consecration of the interest of this fund to health and maternity work, has already been far-reaching in its results, with untold benefits derived.
Soon after her appointment, President Williams recommended the establishment of memorials to the past presidents of the Relief Society; her recommendation was eagerly adopted. The object of the memorials was to be two-fold, namely to honor the past presidents and to foster important Relief Society projects. The memorials established are as follows: the Eliza R. Snow Relief Society Memorial Prize Poem Fund, which provides first and second prizes yearly for poems, the prize poems being later printed in the Relief Society Magazine; the Zina D. H. Young Relief Society Memorial Nurse Loan Fund, which provides loans for under-graduate nurses who may need assistance during their hospital courses; the Bathsheba W. Smith Relief Society Memorial Temple Grant, which provides an amount yearly for temple work for women, and which is sent to the temple in rotation; the Emmeline B. Wells Relief Society Memorial Loan Fund established at the Brigham Young University for women of the upper classes. In appreciation of her efforts, which resulted in the establishment of these memorials, and with a desire to show their love, appreciation and esteem to President Williams, their living president, the women of the Relief Society in 1926, under their own supervision and direction presented President Williams with an honor fund, with the request that she name its use. President Williams has dedicated this fund as a Loan Fund for Public Health Nurses, and it is her earnest hope that before many years every community will be supplied with at least one public health nurse to assist in safeguarding the health of the people. Many have already profited, and others will profit, by the provisions of these funds, and will be enabled to accomplish what otherwise would have been impossible.
Although Mrs. Williams has given so much of her time to Relief Society work and to public work generally, she has been first and foremost a home-maker and mother. She is hospitable, and in no role is she more charming than in that of hostess. Her beautiful home is always open to her family and friends, who are received with a hearty welcome. She is a devoted and loving mother to her large family of children, and is never happier than when she is surrounded by her children and her grandchildren.
In all her Relief Society work President Williams has had the interested support of her husband, so that she always thinks of her work in connection with the aid he constantly gave her. This was the more remarkable when we take into consideration the fact that Mr. Williams was prominent in the business life of Salt Lake City and active in civic and political organizations. No doubt her husband would pay her the same tribute were he living; for it is undoubtedly true that, in a large measure, the success of each was due to the sympathetic understanding and help of the other.
Clarissa S. Williams
By Mrs. Amy Brown Lyman
President Clarissa Smith Williams, sixth General President of the Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was released with honor at the General Conference of the Church on October 7, 1928. In presenting her release, President Heber J. Grant expressed his personal appreciation and the appreciation of the Church generally for the excellent administration of President Williams, and for her long and faithful service in the Relief Society.
President Williams’ release was not a surprise to those who attended the Relief Society conference on October 4. At that time, in her closing address, she stated that it was not her desire to remain in active service indefinitely, and that she might at any time retire as an officer in the organization. She called attention' to the fact that she has always advocated that Relief Society women do not hold office too long, as there are many capable women and offices should rotate.
Mrs. Williams was appointed General President of the Relief Society on April 1, 1921, and has served in this capacity seven and a half years. Previous to this appointment she held many positions of trust in the organization; in fact her service is unique in that it began so early in her life, has been continuous, and has comprehended such a variety of activities. At the age of 16 she was a visiting teacher. She was later secretary and then president of the 17th ward Relief Society. She served for a number of years as stake secretary of the old Salt Lake stake; and when this stake was divided into four stakes, she was made president of the division which retained the name of Salt Lake stake. On November 7, 1901, she was appointed a member of the General Board of Relief Society, and also treasurer of the board. At April conference of the Church in 1911, she was appointed first counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells. This position she held until the retirement of Mrs. Wells on April 1, 1921, when she was appointed General President.
In addition to her Church work President Williams has taken active interest in civic, patriotic, and community organizations. She is a charter member of the Utah Society of the Daughters of the Revolution, a charter member of the State Society of the Daughters of the Pioneers, a member of the Author’s Club and of the Friendship Circle. During the World War she served as a member of the Red Cross Civilian Relief Committee, and was state chairman of the Women’s Committee of the National Council of Defense.
In connection with her labors in the Relief Society, Mrs. Williams has traveled extensively among the stakes and missions of the Church. She has also represented her organization at various meetings of the National Council of Women of the United States; and in 1914 she attended the Quinquennial Meeting of the International Council of Women in Rome, Italy, where she was a United States National Council delegate.
The love and respect of the women of the Relief Society go with President Williams in her retirement. There was perhaps never an officer in any organization more greatly beloved and appreciated, or more honestly admired. As one stake president recently remarked, "She has been a true representation and embodiment of the ideals of the women of the organization.”
President Williams is first of all a Latter-day Saint, living up to the requirements of the Gospel, and putting into practice those things which she has advocated for others. She is also an excellent example of those who aim to live the Golden Rule. She has been most fortunate in her background and heritage—an illustrious daughter of an illustrious father. Like her father, President George A. Smith, she is a person with kindness of heart, breadth of vision, liberality of views, honesty of purpose, straightforwardness of action; she is wise in decision, brave and courageous. From her mother she inherited gentleness and mildness, which are always in evidence; but when occasion requires, she can arise with vigor and even aggression in defense of a principle or in defense of what seems to her the right. She is possessed of qualities of heart and mind which go to make up true womanhood, including, among others, rare charm, poise, and culture. She is an executive of rare ability, presiding at meetings with grace and dignity, conducting business with wisdom, fairness, and dispatch, and showing the greatest consideration, courtesy, and honor to her fellow-officers. It has been a joy and satisfaction to all who have served with her in her various official capacities.
The administration of Clarissa Smith Williams will always stand out as one of advancement and progress. Under the able leadership of herself and her associates the Relief Society has gone forward, making concerted effort to meet, as fully as possible, the needs of the day. Ever mindful of the original objects and purposes of the Society, the spirit of the work in every vital feature has been preserved. The past history and traditions have been honored and respected, and have ever been a guide. The unchangeable spiritual features have prevailed and have been fostered and emphasized. But the organization has not been satisfied to rest contentedly and solely on the laurels of the past, and in its educational, humanitarian, and practical work, it has aimed to take into consideration all recent advancement, to adjust itself to meet the new and changing needs of society, and to meet them in the most intelligent manner and with the most approved methods. It has realized that the old trial and error method is expensive and slow, and has made an effort to profit from the study, experience, and research of the day. It has taken into account the fact that, in health and welfare work, emphasis has shifted from efforts of cure to efforts of prevention, and in educational work from mere subject-matter to the study of the student himself and his behavior.
Some of the outstanding pieces of work fostered by President Williams are the systematic study of social problems. In connection with this topic a Social Service Department has been established at Relief Society headquarters which has served as a laboratory for demonstration and training; the centralization of the wheat fund and the consecration of the interest thereof to health and maternity work; and the establishment of the Relief Society Memorial Loan Funds.
With a view of improving the humanitarian work of the Society regular study in the field of social service has been introduced in every ward and branch. This study has included child welfare, poverty, disease, crime, employment, economic conditions, leisure-time activities, etc. In addition social service institutes have been held for the training of local workers and for the purpose of assisting them in solving some of their practical problems. For this work, a laboratory or department for experimental purposes and for training purposes has been established at Relief Society headquarters. Beginning in 1919, it has developed into a service unit, which is conducted according to the best standards of such work, and which meets some of the needs of the organization.
At the time of . the World War, a governmental ruling was made that no individual or group would be permitted to store food or food stuffs. The Relief Society wheat was everywhere converted into cash, and each ward that had previously had on hand a supply of wheat now had a cash wheat fund. The original purpose of storing grain was to help in times of scarcity or famine; and from the time of the inauguration of the movement in 1876 till the time of the World War, many of the wards in the Church had continuously a supply of wheat on hand. With a desire to best hold and preserve this great wheat trust fund for any future humanitarian emergency or need, and believing that in the meantime the interest of the fund might be used in conserving and saving human life—which would be in direct accord with the original purpose of the grain-saving movement— President Williams made the following recommendations: that the wheat trust fund be centralized in the Presiding Bishop’s Office, and that the interest accruing therefrom be used annually for health and maternity purposes. The recommendation was approved by the General Authorities of the Church and adopted by the women of the organization. Maternity bundles and cabinets have been established, clinics have been supported, and Relief Society women have co-operated freely with the various state health departments in carrying out the provisions of the Sheppard-Towner Act. The consolidation of the Relief Society wheat fund, and the consecration of the interest of this fund to health and maternity work, has already been far-reaching in its results, with untold benefits derived.
Soon after her appointment, President Williams recommended the establishment of memorials to the past presidents of the Relief Society; her recommendation was eagerly adopted. The object of the memorials was to be two-fold, namely to honor the past presidents and to foster important Relief Society projects. The memorials established are as follows: the Eliza R. Snow Relief Society Memorial Prize Poem Fund, which provides first and second prizes yearly for poems, the prize poems being later printed in the Relief Society Magazine; the Zina D. H. Young Relief Society Memorial Nurse Loan Fund, which provides loans for under-graduate nurses who may need assistance during their hospital courses; the Bathsheba W. Smith Relief Society Memorial Temple Grant, which provides an amount yearly for temple work for women, and which is sent to the temple in rotation; the Emmeline B. Wells Relief Society Memorial Loan Fund established at the Brigham Young University for women of the upper classes. In appreciation of her efforts, which resulted in the establishment of these memorials, and with a desire to show their love, appreciation and esteem to President Williams, their living president, the women of the Relief Society in 1926, under their own supervision and direction presented President Williams with an honor fund, with the request that she name its use. President Williams has dedicated this fund as a Loan Fund for Public Health Nurses, and it is her earnest hope that before many years every community will be supplied with at least one public health nurse to assist in safeguarding the health of the people. Many have already profited, and others will profit, by the provisions of these funds, and will be enabled to accomplish what otherwise would have been impossible.
Although Mrs. Williams has given so much of her time to Relief Society work and to public work generally, she has been first and foremost a home-maker and mother. She is hospitable, and in no role is she more charming than in that of hostess. Her beautiful home is always open to her family and friends, who are received with a hearty welcome. She is a devoted and loving mother to her large family of children, and is never happier than when she is surrounded by her children and her grandchildren.
In all her Relief Society work President Williams has had the interested support of her husband, so that she always thinks of her work in connection with the aid he constantly gave her. This was the more remarkable when we take into consideration the fact that Mr. Williams was prominent in the business life of Salt Lake City and active in civic and political organizations. No doubt her husband would pay her the same tribute were he living; for it is undoubtedly true that, in a large measure, the success of each was due to the sympathetic understanding and help of the other.
"President Clarissa S. Williams." Relief Society Magazine. December 1928. pg. 649-651.
President Clarissa S. Williams
Clarissa Smith Williams has been released as president of the National Woman’s Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and while we do not question her judgment in the matter we cannot refrain from saying that her private gain is our public loss. She leaves the head of her Board with the confidence, esteem, and admiration of its members.
Hers is a rare personality, a personality that seems intuitively just. Somehow under her administration each member of her Board felt that she understood the particular sort of support needed, and she gave that support in unstinted measure.
There is an indefinable something that either makes or mars personality. In President Williams that indefinable something seemed to work for an effective presiding officer. A leader must hearten her workers; she must send them forth with an assurance that they can meet the situations that are ahead of them. This President Williams has done. She sent her Board members forth with an abiding faith in the mission of the organization they represented, and with faith in our Father in heaven and his Son Jesus Christ, whose Church is the instrument that brought the Relief Society into being.
A leader must be progressive. Sister Williams’ policy has been to reach out and gather from people, eminently fitted by virtue of their experience and training in social and charity problems, any knowledge they might have that would make this great relief organization of the Church more efficient. To this far sighted policy is due much of the progress in the welfare work that has marked Clarissa Smith Williams’ administration.’ She also knew what if women are to realize their own possibilities and meet their new world, their knowledge must be expanded and their understanding increased. To this end three educational courses have been offered,— a fact that has attracted educational experts interested in adult education.
A president must be loyal. President Williams saw the light of day in a home whose members had dedicated their lives to establishing on earth the restored Gospel in these latter days. She has been loyal to the organizations of her Church. She has been loyal to those who have been charged with the responsibility of carrying forth these organizations. She has given to the work her best thought and her best energy; and now the release for which she asked is only another evidence of her loyalty. Many persons are willing to work and give of their best to promote an organization in which they believe and to which they are devoted ; but they are rare individuals who, feeling that their ability to devote themselves has been impaired for any cause, can still be loyal enough to separate themselves from that institution be-cause they would not interfere with its progress. Yet that is precisely what President Williams has done as indicated by President Grant’s explanation at the time of her release. By this act she has given expression to the highest form of loyalty.
A president must have wisdom. At any moment in her life she may be called upon to make important decisions that affect both organizations and persons. Sister Williams’ training in Relief Society in some respects cannot be duplicated in the Church. We doubt if another woman may be found who, to use army parlance, has come up through the ranks as has Clarissa Smith Williams. Her experience embraces service as a block teacher, a ward secretary, a ward president, a stake president, treasurer of the General Board, counselor to the General President, and General President. Consequently, her experience has been a background, furnishing material for many wise decisions for which the whole training of her life admirably fitted her.
Those who recall her last address at the late conference will remember with what beauty of spirit and with what holiness of purpose she approached the theme of her resignation. With what exaltation she said to them “My dear sisters, if I should sometime in the future resign, you will know that there has been no decrease in my love and interest in the work. I have always been an advocate of stake presidents and ward presidents not clinging to the work too long; for I believe there are many sisters who should have the opportunities and experience such positions afford.”
President Williams always presided with graciousness and with dignity. She was never more lovable or appreciative than in those last days when she confided to the ward and to the stake officers and to her own Board her decision. It was a majestic picture as she stood there in full control of her emotions breathing forth words of inspiration and devotion, raising the spirits of all who heard her into a realm of nobility that caused them to be unsensible to the words she uttered. If there had ever been a particle of doubt about her generalship, which there had not, her closing hour crowned her as supreme.
President Clarissa S. Williams
Clarissa Smith Williams has been released as president of the National Woman’s Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and while we do not question her judgment in the matter we cannot refrain from saying that her private gain is our public loss. She leaves the head of her Board with the confidence, esteem, and admiration of its members.
Hers is a rare personality, a personality that seems intuitively just. Somehow under her administration each member of her Board felt that she understood the particular sort of support needed, and she gave that support in unstinted measure.
There is an indefinable something that either makes or mars personality. In President Williams that indefinable something seemed to work for an effective presiding officer. A leader must hearten her workers; she must send them forth with an assurance that they can meet the situations that are ahead of them. This President Williams has done. She sent her Board members forth with an abiding faith in the mission of the organization they represented, and with faith in our Father in heaven and his Son Jesus Christ, whose Church is the instrument that brought the Relief Society into being.
A leader must be progressive. Sister Williams’ policy has been to reach out and gather from people, eminently fitted by virtue of their experience and training in social and charity problems, any knowledge they might have that would make this great relief organization of the Church more efficient. To this far sighted policy is due much of the progress in the welfare work that has marked Clarissa Smith Williams’ administration.’ She also knew what if women are to realize their own possibilities and meet their new world, their knowledge must be expanded and their understanding increased. To this end three educational courses have been offered,— a fact that has attracted educational experts interested in adult education.
A president must be loyal. President Williams saw the light of day in a home whose members had dedicated their lives to establishing on earth the restored Gospel in these latter days. She has been loyal to the organizations of her Church. She has been loyal to those who have been charged with the responsibility of carrying forth these organizations. She has given to the work her best thought and her best energy; and now the release for which she asked is only another evidence of her loyalty. Many persons are willing to work and give of their best to promote an organization in which they believe and to which they are devoted ; but they are rare individuals who, feeling that their ability to devote themselves has been impaired for any cause, can still be loyal enough to separate themselves from that institution be-cause they would not interfere with its progress. Yet that is precisely what President Williams has done as indicated by President Grant’s explanation at the time of her release. By this act she has given expression to the highest form of loyalty.
A president must have wisdom. At any moment in her life she may be called upon to make important decisions that affect both organizations and persons. Sister Williams’ training in Relief Society in some respects cannot be duplicated in the Church. We doubt if another woman may be found who, to use army parlance, has come up through the ranks as has Clarissa Smith Williams. Her experience embraces service as a block teacher, a ward secretary, a ward president, a stake president, treasurer of the General Board, counselor to the General President, and General President. Consequently, her experience has been a background, furnishing material for many wise decisions for which the whole training of her life admirably fitted her.
Those who recall her last address at the late conference will remember with what beauty of spirit and with what holiness of purpose she approached the theme of her resignation. With what exaltation she said to them “My dear sisters, if I should sometime in the future resign, you will know that there has been no decrease in my love and interest in the work. I have always been an advocate of stake presidents and ward presidents not clinging to the work too long; for I believe there are many sisters who should have the opportunities and experience such positions afford.”
President Williams always presided with graciousness and with dignity. She was never more lovable or appreciative than in those last days when she confided to the ward and to the stake officers and to her own Board her decision. It was a majestic picture as she stood there in full control of her emotions breathing forth words of inspiration and devotion, raising the spirits of all who heard her into a realm of nobility that caused them to be unsensible to the words she uttered. If there had ever been a particle of doubt about her generalship, which there had not, her closing hour crowned her as supreme.
"Tributes to Clarissa Smith Williams." Relief Society Magazine. May 1930. pg. 222-230.
Tributes to Clarissa Smith Williams
By Louise Y. Robison
CLARISSA Smith Williams—can I say more than that she was my ideal—friend, wife, mother, and Latter-day Saint. Her poise, which brought peace and calm ; her devotion to husband and children, that unusual devotion which not only served but stimulated in others the desire to serve ; the gracious hospitality, making all happy in her presence ; her wise counsel and absolutely just decision ; loyalty to friends, devotion to Relief Society and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—these are the characteristics that made Sister Williams admired as a beautiful example for all women.
By Amy Brown Lyman
THE grave has won no victory in the death of Clarissa Smith Williams. Her fine character, her excellent example, and her lovely personality, which have so enriched the lives of thousands, will not be forgotten: and her numerous good works will live as a monument to her memory and an inspiration to others. She has but passed from mortality to immortality, where she will enjoy her reward and the fulfillment of her highest desires.
Sister Williams was one of God's noble women, rich in life's greatest assets—faith in God and fellowman, faith in family and home, faith in friends and associates. Honest, outspoken, straight-forward, she shunned hypocrisy, sham, and deceit. Brave and courageous in defending the right, she was true and loyal to every trust. With all she was humble, gentle, kind, possessing rare culture, refinement, and poise. She was free from those devastating complexes of mind and soul which block natural responses and honest action, and which mar and destroy personality.
Both in length of service and in quality, her humanitarian work was unique. For over half a century she devoted herself without a break to Relief Society work striving for health opportunity. normal living and working conditions, for educational facilities and spiritual development.
Clarissa Smith Williams was the ideal of the women of the great Relief Society over whom she president. Her fine soul qualities found response in their hearts and her name will linger with them forever.
By Julia A. Child
WHEN a great man dies,
For years beyond his ken
The light he leaves behind him
Shines upon the paths of men."
The foregoing stanza applies also to women. It finds exemplification in the influence exerted during life, and abiding with us still, of our beloved president, leader, and sister, Clarissa S. Williams. She was by inheritance a natural leader, possessing those rare qualities of personality that inspire respect and confidence.
In her life she practiced both justice and mercy. With her superior intelligence there was always a human sympathy that warmed the hearts of her associates. Thus, with Sister Williams, leadership was easy, natural, and always large and inspiring. She was a friend who seemed to understand the needs and hopes of others. By example and by precept she "allured to brighter worlds and led the way.
By Julia A. F. Lund
IT has been said that the supreme achievement of knowledge is the discovery of unity. Applied to life and character, this means the harmonious blending of all those qualities that make living the finest of the fine arts. This unity has certainly, to a very marked degree, found expression in the rare personality of Clarissa Smith Williams. Service to State and Nation were quite as marked in their fields as her achievements in Relief Society, and in the higher and more sacred calling, within the home. Hers was certainly a life of three dimensions: its strength was dependent upon the physical rhythms she always maintained in the march of progress; its breadth was secured by the extent of her interests and the range of her activities ; the depth was secured by her abiding vision and her high idealism.
Loyal, patriotic, tender, true : a rare blending of the practical with the spiritual ; a public servant, a friend, a wife, a mother. Great in each, and in all—"Hers a life without a stain, a fame without a flaw."
By Jennie B. Knight
IF writing were as easy as loving President Williams, my tribute would readily be expressed. When I saw her first, she impressed me as a wise and gracious leader. This impression ripened into knowledge during the years that I was privileged to work with her, first as a vice-president on the Woman's Committee State Council of National Defense, then as her first counselor in the National Woman's Relief Society.
Momentous was the occasion when in 1917 the government entrusted to women the leadership of the war work of the women of America. Mrs. Williams was chairman for Utah. In this position she proved to be trained to the leadership of women, sympathetic with women's ways of thinking, experienced with their methods of work, and anxious for the welfare of women, sons, and husbands.
Periodically, as her committee met with the men's division in the Governor's room at the State Capitol, her reports and recommendations were given with queenly dignity and received with consideration and respect. To her I owe a lasting debt for seven and a half abundant years, full of opportunity, rich in experiences and happy contacts with noble people, many of these in the humbler walks of life, others of national and international repute.
She was deliberate, just, wise, and appreciative, with the rare gift of making all who labored with her feel that their position was an important one and that each had the ability to accomplish the task assigned. She was, in very deed, a queen.
By Emma A. Empey
DURING my association with Sister Clarissa S. Williams, which dates back more than twenty years, I have learned to love and appreciate the splendid qualities of character which contributed to make of her what she was—a true and sympathetic friend, a wise Counselor, an honored and beloved leader, of the women of the Relief Society.
She had served in every department of the organization, from visiting teacher to General President, and was familiar with every phase of the work. She understood the problems of the Ward President; and the vision she had of what might be accomplished under certain conditions, made her eager for more education and training among Relief Society women. To equip them better for their work she gave careful consideration to every suggestion for better methods.
She was especially sympathetic with little children. The physically handicapped and the neglected child claimed her special care.
As a hostess in her home and to her friends she was gracious and charming, and to the stranger kind and attentive. In my intimate association with her I have never heard her speak unkindly of any one. My heart is filled with deep gratitude as I contemplate the life and labors of this superior woman, and count what it has meant to me to have known her and to call her my friend.
By Sarah M. McLelland
THE opportunity of paying a tribute to the memory of Sister Clarissa S. Williams I sincerely appreciate. As a close associate for many years in the activities of the General Board of the Relief Society, I admire her for her many noble qualities, and learned to love her for her own dear self. She was always tolerant and just, appreciative of any labor performed in the great cause of humanity, and loyal to her God, her family, and the Relief Society Work. Only those really in earnest and consecrated to their task can do this.
God blessed her efforts.
By Annie Wells Cannon
A FITTING tribute would I lay upon this shrine of tender remembrance. You were a friend to my girlhood, a companion of my youth, and for many years a coworker and associate in the great organization of the Relief Society.
Always ready and quick to learn, you were foremost among your schoolmates. You possessed an unusual and logical mind, were gifted with fine intelligence, and with it all manifested an obedience to authority and a willingness to serve. You were the first of Utah's native daughters to wear the mantle of the "Elect Lady." You were a worthy daughter of the pioneers, and your reverence for God's priesthood and your early training prepared you for this high calling. For your many attributes of mind and heart, many will arise and call you blessed. Your hospitality sent a warm glow to the friend who entered your door, as bright and cheery as the red coals in an open fire-place on a cloudy day. Your wifely devotion and glorious motherhood stands preeminent, an example to all women for unselfish love and tenderness. Your dignified and gracious bearing marked you as a leader among women.
In my heart will linger always the memory of your genial smile, the clasp of your velvet hand, and all your ways of friendliness.
By Lalene H. Hart
FROM the school of experience .-I into a higher sphere of learning a beautiful, queenly mother has passed with honors, there to continue in eternal progress. A mother whose motherly love and devotion extended far beyond her own home. Because of the loss of her companionship and wise counsel her passing has filled many hearts with sadness. But out of this sorrow will come sweet memories and great joy because of lives nobly enriched through her influence. Sister Williams was a tower of strength and inspiration. Her culture, poise, dignity, personality, and leadership made her an outstanding woman in the home, the church, the community, and the nation.
To those with less experience in the great Relief Society work over which she so graciously presided, she extended generously her sympathy, confidence, and encouragement. Her vision and her supreme desire to have the work, so dear to her and so vital to humanity, advance, gave others a new stimulus to measure up to the high ideals she had attained. Her womanly power and strength meant much to those in deep sorrow, in abounding joy, or in perplexing situations. On all occasions she manifested the same sweet spirit and kindly attitude. To those whose hearts were filled with unspoken appreciation for her, she instinctively knew that they silently loved and honored her. Hers was a noble work, and the world needs many such mothers. It was a wonderful privilege to know and to serve with her.
By Lotta Paul Baxter
IN the death of Clarissa S. Williams one of the greatest women of modern times was taken from us.
She was a friend of women. All women of her acquaintance felt her interest in them and her desire to make them happier by making surrounding conditions better.
Filled with sympathy and understanding of the difficulties that beset women in remote places, she was thinking constantly of something to benefit them. She was the friend of children.
Under-privileged children received her first attention. To them she sought to give expression to their latent abilities, which could be developed only by special training.
She was my friend. When work was to be done, the different assignments were made; and although little was said, we knew we were expected to do our best. If we failed or partially failed, Sister Williams sympathized, encouraged, and sent us forth again, with a buoyant confidence that we could make good. In our minds there was never any doubt or question as to the justice of her decisions. Even when they were against us we felt that they were right.
My debt of gratitude to her can never be repaid; she inspired me to live my better-self.
By Cora L. Bennion
SISTER Clarissa Smith Williams was an outstanding example of the two great principles of religion—love of God and love of humanity. Her heart was full of unfailing love for all mankind. Her unselfish devotion to the Church and to the work of the Relief Society was and still is a constant inspiration to those engaged in this great cause.
In her nature, Sister Williams was deeply spiritual. Devoted to truth and right, she was yet slow to condemn offenders. Her attitude toward them was that of charity. Always ready to forgive, she would pray for those who were in need of moral and spiritual strength. She was socially intelligent, refined and gentle in manner, yet humble as a little child.
It was a real privilege to have an intimate association with Sister Williams. To be in her presence was an inspiration. She made us feel that we wanted to do our part and do it well. We will always cherish her memory.
By Amy W. Evans
TO me one of the outstanding characteristics of Clarissa S. Williams was her public-spiritedness, her vision of usefulness to others. This is to be seen in all she did toward building up our communities in health, education, and in spirituality.
During her presidency of the Relief Society, funds were set aside in honor of those who had served at the head of the organization. These were all "living monuments," as she herself used to say. They served a useful purpose,—to encourage the writing of poetry among our women, to aid young women to become nurses, to do Temple work for the dead, to help girls to receive an education, to aid young women to train as public health nurses and social workers.
Through her influence the wheat interest fund is being used to promote and insure the health of women and children throughout our Church.
She always sought service in the forward-looking larger way. The bread she cast upon the waters will return every day forever.
By Ethel R. Smith
TRULY in the face of one's holiest feelings we are mute. Words cannot be found to express my love and admiration for Clarissa Smith Williams, and the joy and happiness that came into my life through knowing and associating with her. Before becoming a member of the General Board, I had known Sister Williams only as a charming, gracious, distant relative of my husband's family ; had learned also somewhat of her accomplishments. However it was not until I became intimately associated with her that I began to realize her worth.
Sister Williams' love for her fellow workers, and her desire to show her love, made each member of her board rejoice in the possession of her confidence and friendship. Each Wednesday afternoon, the time when the board meetings were held, became an event looked forward to, and each opportunity to be with her was a choice and happy experience. Each time we left her presence, we left filled with inspiration to become better, nobler women.
Her dignity, fearlessness, wisdom, justice, and her tender, impartial love made her co-workers ardently desire the opportunity to serve her. Her passing has left sorrow in our hearts, a void in our lives, but also a beautiful, loving memory of a noble woman.
By Rosannah C. Irvine
WOMANHOOD and the Cause. These are two great things to be thankful for in the life of Clarissa Smith Williams. True womanhood and the cause of truth she upheld throughout her life.
Far better than a shaft of marble or mausoleum of stone in commemoration of her deeds, is the love of sixty thousand women, on whose hearts is engraved, in tender reverence, this name : "Our President."
Unlike many whose lives are cast in pleasant places, Sister Williams did not grow weak and vacillating, but developed and retained the stalwart, invincible character which was her heritage. Her greatness was shown, not only in holding the hearts of her people with diplomacy and discretion, but in yielding graciously to what she acknowledged a higher authority than her own, even in the frustration of her fondest hopes. She sometimes met with opposition—what great soul does not?—but she accepted counsel or criticism as calmly and serenely as she accepted the affectionate regard of thousands.
The power to attract love and devotion is the result of the ability to see and appreciate in others what is good and beautiful. Sister Williams had this rare gift.
A happiness to have known her, a privilege to have been her friend, it is a blessing to have been permitted to work with her in the Cause she loved so well.
By Alice L. Reynolds
IT often becomes part of a leader's work to direct leaders. This is eminently true of the General Board of the Relief Society, with a membership of many women who formerly were at the head of Stake Boards.
In the field of statecraft, many men have failed because they could not lead leaders. In this very thing, Clarissa Smith Williams was extraordinarily successful. The spirit of appreciation for those working with her radiated from her as warmth radiates from the sun, and as a consequence harmony prevailed. She presented her problems in a way that made appeal and brought at once to their support the efforts of a united Board. She had the gift of making those associated with her feel that she was genuinely interested in them and in the particular piece of work that they were striving to have succeed. She lived above the petty and sordid things of life, and inspired nobility in others. Her life was such as to suggest James Russell Lowell's tribute: "Earth's noblest thing, a Woman perfected."
She was one of the most magnanimous women it has been my good fortune to know. An outstanding example of her magnanimity is seen in the fact that she established memorials to each of her predecessors, and that these memorials have in them the possibility of great good and benefit for others.
By Nettie D. Bradford
THOSE loved her most who knew her best.
When I was a child, we lived on the same block with her in Salt Lake City ; her mother was our Relief Society teacher. Her home life was ideal ; her love for her good husband, her devotion to her family, was to me an inspiration. My first calling to Relief Society in a stake capacity was under her stake presidency; and it is pleasant to recall committee meetings in her home. Her daughters were most gracious to their mother's guests.
A natural-born leader, she inspired in us confidence in our own abilities. She presided as stake president with the same kindly dignity that characterized her in the office of General President. Yet her dignity was no barrier to approach, when one sought help from her, neither was it alloyed with aloofness, for she remained her genuine self amidst her wonderful successes.
Solicitous of the welfare of her board on their visits to the stakes, and attentive to reports when they returned, she respected our opinions, gave advice with perfect frankness, and thus commanded deep respect from her co-workers. She was wise in hearing and in weighing evidence before rendering decisions ; but when rendered they were final. I esteem it a great privilege to have labored under her, for she meant so much to me.
By Elise B. Alder
OUR beloved and noble leader is gone. We have lost one of our greatest women. Referring to her birth, we find her descending from the same noble family that gave to the world the prophet Joseph Smith. Looking back upon the years of her past life, we find her ever valiant in Relief Society work—she has been connected with its every phase. George Eliot says : "The reward of one duty is the power to fulfil another :" and she has climbed the ladder step by step until the top in honor has been reached—that of the highest calling of woman in our Church, the president of the Woman's National Relief Society.
During her administration in this high calling, her chief concern, aside from her constant endeavor to be considerate of her co-workers, was a sincere desire to better the world by protecting the health of women and children. As we Board members travel through various stakes, brought vividly to our notice are the many hearts that have been filled with gratitude for the benefits they enjoy from her efforts in preventive and corrective welfare work.
She has bequeathed to her Church a character that is a subject of admiration and gratitude.
By Inez K. Allen
AS a counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells in her declining years, Sister Williams .was loyal, wise, and kind. As General Relief Society President, her very expression met response within me (then a Stake Relief Society President) that she was inspired by the wisdom of God, both as to content and manner of expression. Her attitude seemed that of a great mother. She was progressive, the social service system which she inaugurated standing as a light on a hill for all the Relief Society. Because some women and little children suffered and died each year from lack of necessary care, her heart was touched ; so when she called upon the Relief Society officers to direct the interest on the wheat fund for the health of women and children, there was not a dissenting vote.
As President of the Board, she was always gracious, considered well her utterances, was humble yet dignified. She enjoyed good humor, was sincere, and her hospitality was generous and charming. Lest the Relief Society should in any way suffer because of her failing health, she manifested courage when she asked to be released from the highest position any woman can hold in the Church. From my first association to the parting hour, she constantly rose higher and higher. Her last simple request that the board members give Sister Robison the same support they gave to her was sublime. Is it any wonder I love her?
By Ida Peterson Beal
THE sands of time in the hour glass of a noble life have run out, and dear Sister Clarissa S. Williams is with us no more. In her passing she is sincerely mourned and missed by the women of the Church, to whom she has given so abundantly of her time and energy. To them she has left a legacy more valuable than riches. Her life was a daily example of her teachings — "true worth is in being, not in seeming."
Sister Williams was richly endowed by nature with a remarkable mind. She was an eager student always, maintaining "that one is never too old to learn." Leadership was one of her outstanding qualifications, amply manifested in her labors as president of the Relief Society. The secret of her marvelous success has been her vision and devotion to duty. Simply, directly, tenderly, yet efficiently, she administered the affairs of this great organization. She did not misread the responsibility of her great calling, but with patience and humility her constant anxiety was how she could best help and serve those who were beset with sorrow and suffering.
Lives have been enriched and ennobled by coming in contact with this good woman. Generously she gave of her great love, and in rich measure love came back to her.
Tributes to Clarissa Smith Williams
By Louise Y. Robison
CLARISSA Smith Williams—can I say more than that she was my ideal—friend, wife, mother, and Latter-day Saint. Her poise, which brought peace and calm ; her devotion to husband and children, that unusual devotion which not only served but stimulated in others the desire to serve ; the gracious hospitality, making all happy in her presence ; her wise counsel and absolutely just decision ; loyalty to friends, devotion to Relief Society and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—these are the characteristics that made Sister Williams admired as a beautiful example for all women.
By Amy Brown Lyman
THE grave has won no victory in the death of Clarissa Smith Williams. Her fine character, her excellent example, and her lovely personality, which have so enriched the lives of thousands, will not be forgotten: and her numerous good works will live as a monument to her memory and an inspiration to others. She has but passed from mortality to immortality, where she will enjoy her reward and the fulfillment of her highest desires.
Sister Williams was one of God's noble women, rich in life's greatest assets—faith in God and fellowman, faith in family and home, faith in friends and associates. Honest, outspoken, straight-forward, she shunned hypocrisy, sham, and deceit. Brave and courageous in defending the right, she was true and loyal to every trust. With all she was humble, gentle, kind, possessing rare culture, refinement, and poise. She was free from those devastating complexes of mind and soul which block natural responses and honest action, and which mar and destroy personality.
Both in length of service and in quality, her humanitarian work was unique. For over half a century she devoted herself without a break to Relief Society work striving for health opportunity. normal living and working conditions, for educational facilities and spiritual development.
Clarissa Smith Williams was the ideal of the women of the great Relief Society over whom she president. Her fine soul qualities found response in their hearts and her name will linger with them forever.
By Julia A. Child
WHEN a great man dies,
For years beyond his ken
The light he leaves behind him
Shines upon the paths of men."
The foregoing stanza applies also to women. It finds exemplification in the influence exerted during life, and abiding with us still, of our beloved president, leader, and sister, Clarissa S. Williams. She was by inheritance a natural leader, possessing those rare qualities of personality that inspire respect and confidence.
In her life she practiced both justice and mercy. With her superior intelligence there was always a human sympathy that warmed the hearts of her associates. Thus, with Sister Williams, leadership was easy, natural, and always large and inspiring. She was a friend who seemed to understand the needs and hopes of others. By example and by precept she "allured to brighter worlds and led the way.
By Julia A. F. Lund
IT has been said that the supreme achievement of knowledge is the discovery of unity. Applied to life and character, this means the harmonious blending of all those qualities that make living the finest of the fine arts. This unity has certainly, to a very marked degree, found expression in the rare personality of Clarissa Smith Williams. Service to State and Nation were quite as marked in their fields as her achievements in Relief Society, and in the higher and more sacred calling, within the home. Hers was certainly a life of three dimensions: its strength was dependent upon the physical rhythms she always maintained in the march of progress; its breadth was secured by the extent of her interests and the range of her activities ; the depth was secured by her abiding vision and her high idealism.
Loyal, patriotic, tender, true : a rare blending of the practical with the spiritual ; a public servant, a friend, a wife, a mother. Great in each, and in all—"Hers a life without a stain, a fame without a flaw."
By Jennie B. Knight
IF writing were as easy as loving President Williams, my tribute would readily be expressed. When I saw her first, she impressed me as a wise and gracious leader. This impression ripened into knowledge during the years that I was privileged to work with her, first as a vice-president on the Woman's Committee State Council of National Defense, then as her first counselor in the National Woman's Relief Society.
Momentous was the occasion when in 1917 the government entrusted to women the leadership of the war work of the women of America. Mrs. Williams was chairman for Utah. In this position she proved to be trained to the leadership of women, sympathetic with women's ways of thinking, experienced with their methods of work, and anxious for the welfare of women, sons, and husbands.
Periodically, as her committee met with the men's division in the Governor's room at the State Capitol, her reports and recommendations were given with queenly dignity and received with consideration and respect. To her I owe a lasting debt for seven and a half abundant years, full of opportunity, rich in experiences and happy contacts with noble people, many of these in the humbler walks of life, others of national and international repute.
She was deliberate, just, wise, and appreciative, with the rare gift of making all who labored with her feel that their position was an important one and that each had the ability to accomplish the task assigned. She was, in very deed, a queen.
By Emma A. Empey
DURING my association with Sister Clarissa S. Williams, which dates back more than twenty years, I have learned to love and appreciate the splendid qualities of character which contributed to make of her what she was—a true and sympathetic friend, a wise Counselor, an honored and beloved leader, of the women of the Relief Society.
She had served in every department of the organization, from visiting teacher to General President, and was familiar with every phase of the work. She understood the problems of the Ward President; and the vision she had of what might be accomplished under certain conditions, made her eager for more education and training among Relief Society women. To equip them better for their work she gave careful consideration to every suggestion for better methods.
She was especially sympathetic with little children. The physically handicapped and the neglected child claimed her special care.
As a hostess in her home and to her friends she was gracious and charming, and to the stranger kind and attentive. In my intimate association with her I have never heard her speak unkindly of any one. My heart is filled with deep gratitude as I contemplate the life and labors of this superior woman, and count what it has meant to me to have known her and to call her my friend.
By Sarah M. McLelland
THE opportunity of paying a tribute to the memory of Sister Clarissa S. Williams I sincerely appreciate. As a close associate for many years in the activities of the General Board of the Relief Society, I admire her for her many noble qualities, and learned to love her for her own dear self. She was always tolerant and just, appreciative of any labor performed in the great cause of humanity, and loyal to her God, her family, and the Relief Society Work. Only those really in earnest and consecrated to their task can do this.
God blessed her efforts.
By Annie Wells Cannon
A FITTING tribute would I lay upon this shrine of tender remembrance. You were a friend to my girlhood, a companion of my youth, and for many years a coworker and associate in the great organization of the Relief Society.
Always ready and quick to learn, you were foremost among your schoolmates. You possessed an unusual and logical mind, were gifted with fine intelligence, and with it all manifested an obedience to authority and a willingness to serve. You were the first of Utah's native daughters to wear the mantle of the "Elect Lady." You were a worthy daughter of the pioneers, and your reverence for God's priesthood and your early training prepared you for this high calling. For your many attributes of mind and heart, many will arise and call you blessed. Your hospitality sent a warm glow to the friend who entered your door, as bright and cheery as the red coals in an open fire-place on a cloudy day. Your wifely devotion and glorious motherhood stands preeminent, an example to all women for unselfish love and tenderness. Your dignified and gracious bearing marked you as a leader among women.
In my heart will linger always the memory of your genial smile, the clasp of your velvet hand, and all your ways of friendliness.
By Lalene H. Hart
FROM the school of experience .-I into a higher sphere of learning a beautiful, queenly mother has passed with honors, there to continue in eternal progress. A mother whose motherly love and devotion extended far beyond her own home. Because of the loss of her companionship and wise counsel her passing has filled many hearts with sadness. But out of this sorrow will come sweet memories and great joy because of lives nobly enriched through her influence. Sister Williams was a tower of strength and inspiration. Her culture, poise, dignity, personality, and leadership made her an outstanding woman in the home, the church, the community, and the nation.
To those with less experience in the great Relief Society work over which she so graciously presided, she extended generously her sympathy, confidence, and encouragement. Her vision and her supreme desire to have the work, so dear to her and so vital to humanity, advance, gave others a new stimulus to measure up to the high ideals she had attained. Her womanly power and strength meant much to those in deep sorrow, in abounding joy, or in perplexing situations. On all occasions she manifested the same sweet spirit and kindly attitude. To those whose hearts were filled with unspoken appreciation for her, she instinctively knew that they silently loved and honored her. Hers was a noble work, and the world needs many such mothers. It was a wonderful privilege to know and to serve with her.
By Lotta Paul Baxter
IN the death of Clarissa S. Williams one of the greatest women of modern times was taken from us.
She was a friend of women. All women of her acquaintance felt her interest in them and her desire to make them happier by making surrounding conditions better.
Filled with sympathy and understanding of the difficulties that beset women in remote places, she was thinking constantly of something to benefit them. She was the friend of children.
Under-privileged children received her first attention. To them she sought to give expression to their latent abilities, which could be developed only by special training.
She was my friend. When work was to be done, the different assignments were made; and although little was said, we knew we were expected to do our best. If we failed or partially failed, Sister Williams sympathized, encouraged, and sent us forth again, with a buoyant confidence that we could make good. In our minds there was never any doubt or question as to the justice of her decisions. Even when they were against us we felt that they were right.
My debt of gratitude to her can never be repaid; she inspired me to live my better-self.
By Cora L. Bennion
SISTER Clarissa Smith Williams was an outstanding example of the two great principles of religion—love of God and love of humanity. Her heart was full of unfailing love for all mankind. Her unselfish devotion to the Church and to the work of the Relief Society was and still is a constant inspiration to those engaged in this great cause.
In her nature, Sister Williams was deeply spiritual. Devoted to truth and right, she was yet slow to condemn offenders. Her attitude toward them was that of charity. Always ready to forgive, she would pray for those who were in need of moral and spiritual strength. She was socially intelligent, refined and gentle in manner, yet humble as a little child.
It was a real privilege to have an intimate association with Sister Williams. To be in her presence was an inspiration. She made us feel that we wanted to do our part and do it well. We will always cherish her memory.
By Amy W. Evans
TO me one of the outstanding characteristics of Clarissa S. Williams was her public-spiritedness, her vision of usefulness to others. This is to be seen in all she did toward building up our communities in health, education, and in spirituality.
During her presidency of the Relief Society, funds were set aside in honor of those who had served at the head of the organization. These were all "living monuments," as she herself used to say. They served a useful purpose,—to encourage the writing of poetry among our women, to aid young women to become nurses, to do Temple work for the dead, to help girls to receive an education, to aid young women to train as public health nurses and social workers.
Through her influence the wheat interest fund is being used to promote and insure the health of women and children throughout our Church.
She always sought service in the forward-looking larger way. The bread she cast upon the waters will return every day forever.
By Ethel R. Smith
TRULY in the face of one's holiest feelings we are mute. Words cannot be found to express my love and admiration for Clarissa Smith Williams, and the joy and happiness that came into my life through knowing and associating with her. Before becoming a member of the General Board, I had known Sister Williams only as a charming, gracious, distant relative of my husband's family ; had learned also somewhat of her accomplishments. However it was not until I became intimately associated with her that I began to realize her worth.
Sister Williams' love for her fellow workers, and her desire to show her love, made each member of her board rejoice in the possession of her confidence and friendship. Each Wednesday afternoon, the time when the board meetings were held, became an event looked forward to, and each opportunity to be with her was a choice and happy experience. Each time we left her presence, we left filled with inspiration to become better, nobler women.
Her dignity, fearlessness, wisdom, justice, and her tender, impartial love made her co-workers ardently desire the opportunity to serve her. Her passing has left sorrow in our hearts, a void in our lives, but also a beautiful, loving memory of a noble woman.
By Rosannah C. Irvine
WOMANHOOD and the Cause. These are two great things to be thankful for in the life of Clarissa Smith Williams. True womanhood and the cause of truth she upheld throughout her life.
Far better than a shaft of marble or mausoleum of stone in commemoration of her deeds, is the love of sixty thousand women, on whose hearts is engraved, in tender reverence, this name : "Our President."
Unlike many whose lives are cast in pleasant places, Sister Williams did not grow weak and vacillating, but developed and retained the stalwart, invincible character which was her heritage. Her greatness was shown, not only in holding the hearts of her people with diplomacy and discretion, but in yielding graciously to what she acknowledged a higher authority than her own, even in the frustration of her fondest hopes. She sometimes met with opposition—what great soul does not?—but she accepted counsel or criticism as calmly and serenely as she accepted the affectionate regard of thousands.
The power to attract love and devotion is the result of the ability to see and appreciate in others what is good and beautiful. Sister Williams had this rare gift.
A happiness to have known her, a privilege to have been her friend, it is a blessing to have been permitted to work with her in the Cause she loved so well.
By Alice L. Reynolds
IT often becomes part of a leader's work to direct leaders. This is eminently true of the General Board of the Relief Society, with a membership of many women who formerly were at the head of Stake Boards.
In the field of statecraft, many men have failed because they could not lead leaders. In this very thing, Clarissa Smith Williams was extraordinarily successful. The spirit of appreciation for those working with her radiated from her as warmth radiates from the sun, and as a consequence harmony prevailed. She presented her problems in a way that made appeal and brought at once to their support the efforts of a united Board. She had the gift of making those associated with her feel that she was genuinely interested in them and in the particular piece of work that they were striving to have succeed. She lived above the petty and sordid things of life, and inspired nobility in others. Her life was such as to suggest James Russell Lowell's tribute: "Earth's noblest thing, a Woman perfected."
She was one of the most magnanimous women it has been my good fortune to know. An outstanding example of her magnanimity is seen in the fact that she established memorials to each of her predecessors, and that these memorials have in them the possibility of great good and benefit for others.
By Nettie D. Bradford
THOSE loved her most who knew her best.
When I was a child, we lived on the same block with her in Salt Lake City ; her mother was our Relief Society teacher. Her home life was ideal ; her love for her good husband, her devotion to her family, was to me an inspiration. My first calling to Relief Society in a stake capacity was under her stake presidency; and it is pleasant to recall committee meetings in her home. Her daughters were most gracious to their mother's guests.
A natural-born leader, she inspired in us confidence in our own abilities. She presided as stake president with the same kindly dignity that characterized her in the office of General President. Yet her dignity was no barrier to approach, when one sought help from her, neither was it alloyed with aloofness, for she remained her genuine self amidst her wonderful successes.
Solicitous of the welfare of her board on their visits to the stakes, and attentive to reports when they returned, she respected our opinions, gave advice with perfect frankness, and thus commanded deep respect from her co-workers. She was wise in hearing and in weighing evidence before rendering decisions ; but when rendered they were final. I esteem it a great privilege to have labored under her, for she meant so much to me.
By Elise B. Alder
OUR beloved and noble leader is gone. We have lost one of our greatest women. Referring to her birth, we find her descending from the same noble family that gave to the world the prophet Joseph Smith. Looking back upon the years of her past life, we find her ever valiant in Relief Society work—she has been connected with its every phase. George Eliot says : "The reward of one duty is the power to fulfil another :" and she has climbed the ladder step by step until the top in honor has been reached—that of the highest calling of woman in our Church, the president of the Woman's National Relief Society.
During her administration in this high calling, her chief concern, aside from her constant endeavor to be considerate of her co-workers, was a sincere desire to better the world by protecting the health of women and children. As we Board members travel through various stakes, brought vividly to our notice are the many hearts that have been filled with gratitude for the benefits they enjoy from her efforts in preventive and corrective welfare work.
She has bequeathed to her Church a character that is a subject of admiration and gratitude.
By Inez K. Allen
AS a counselor to President Emmeline B. Wells in her declining years, Sister Williams .was loyal, wise, and kind. As General Relief Society President, her very expression met response within me (then a Stake Relief Society President) that she was inspired by the wisdom of God, both as to content and manner of expression. Her attitude seemed that of a great mother. She was progressive, the social service system which she inaugurated standing as a light on a hill for all the Relief Society. Because some women and little children suffered and died each year from lack of necessary care, her heart was touched ; so when she called upon the Relief Society officers to direct the interest on the wheat fund for the health of women and children, there was not a dissenting vote.
As President of the Board, she was always gracious, considered well her utterances, was humble yet dignified. She enjoyed good humor, was sincere, and her hospitality was generous and charming. Lest the Relief Society should in any way suffer because of her failing health, she manifested courage when she asked to be released from the highest position any woman can hold in the Church. From my first association to the parting hour, she constantly rose higher and higher. Her last simple request that the board members give Sister Robison the same support they gave to her was sublime. Is it any wonder I love her?
By Ida Peterson Beal
THE sands of time in the hour glass of a noble life have run out, and dear Sister Clarissa S. Williams is with us no more. In her passing she is sincerely mourned and missed by the women of the Church, to whom she has given so abundantly of her time and energy. To them she has left a legacy more valuable than riches. Her life was a daily example of her teachings — "true worth is in being, not in seeming."
Sister Williams was richly endowed by nature with a remarkable mind. She was an eager student always, maintaining "that one is never too old to learn." Leadership was one of her outstanding qualifications, amply manifested in her labors as president of the Relief Society. The secret of her marvelous success has been her vision and devotion to duty. Simply, directly, tenderly, yet efficiently, she administered the affairs of this great organization. She did not misread the responsibility of her great calling, but with patience and humility her constant anxiety was how she could best help and serve those who were beset with sorrow and suffering.
Lives have been enriched and ennobled by coming in contact with this good woman. Generously she gave of her great love, and in rich measure love came back to her.