Spencer W. Kimball
Spencer Woolley Kimball (March 28, 1895-November 5, 1985) headed the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints from 1973 until his death. His grandfather, Heber C. Kimball, was one of the original Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and then First Counselor in the First Presidency to Brigham Young.
He had not been expected to succeed to the Presidency, as Harold B. Lee, coincidentally born on Kimball's fourth birthday, was named an Apostle two years before him and succession is strictly by seniority. However, Lee died suddenly in December 1973 after a presidency of a year and a half and Kimball, as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, was next in line.
His presidency is chiefly remembered for his 1978 declaration that a revelation from God had been received that the priesthood could now be conferred on all male members without regard to race or color. Earlier interpretations had forbidden it to blacks, but the worldwide growth of the Church had found this an increasing obstacle.
In the 1980s Kimball's health declined and the burdens of the presidency were increasingly shouldered by Gordon B. Hinckley.
Kimball was born and raised in Southeastern Arizona in the United States. He lived in the town of Safford, Arizona before being called as an Apostle.
