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During the October 1991 General Conference of the Mormon Church, Apostle M. Russell Ballard spoke about the family of Joseph Smith. As parents of the Prophet, Joseph Sr. and Lucy endured ridicule, persecution, and heartache. Nevertheless, they steadfastly encouraged, supported, and defended their son and the cause of Mormonism. Hyrum Smith, elder brother to Joseph, also remained a loyal friend to the Prophet, even going to the grave with him. (Read the Article)
 In April Conference of 1996, Apostle Dallin H. Oaks spoke about how despite human failings and flaws, Joseph Smith was a prophet of God for our day. He lived his life in the often harsh and unstable frontier, working to provide for his family while bearing the responsibility of establishing and leading the young Mormon Church. The Prophet Joseph Smith experienced severe opposition and persecution throughout his life, but in the midst of all of this he never wavered from his divine calling. He was physically abused, accused falsely, struggled with financial burdens, and bore the grief of losing six of eleven children in infancy and childhood. Elder Oaks leaves his testimony that, although imperfect, Joseph Smith was a righteous instrument in the hands of God who gave his life for the cause of Mormonism. (Read the Article)
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