They were able to bring one of the first organs into the Valley, and many neighbors treasured the memories of happy evenings of song and discussion in the Smith home. On 1 July 1877, when the Morgan Stake was organized, Willard was called to be the stake president. He served in this capacity until 1893- These were years filled with challenges as the Saints in Morgan Valley struggled to build homes in a new environment. As spiritual leader ofthe Saints in Morgan, President Smith was often called upon for advice and counsel. He was greatly loved and respected, and never lost an opportunity of bearing a strong testimony to the truthfulness ofthe gospel as revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. President Smith was also active in civic and community affairs. He served as probate judge, county commissioner, and representative of Morgan County in the territorial legislature for four terms. He also served as chaplain of the legislature. In the spring of 1902, President and Sister Smith purchased land in Idaho and made plans to move there. Before they could do so, however, President Smith suffered a severe stroke. By June, he was recovered enough that they could make their journey, but the first few months there proved that his health was not up to pioneering a new area. In December, he and Cordelia moved to Logan where they rented a small home near the Logan Temple. Here, for the last months of his life, he spent his time doing temple work and enjoying the company of friends who had been with him in the Mormon Battalion. He died 21 November 1902 at his home in Logan. In a short sketch ofthe life of Willard G, Smith, W. E. Criddle writes; "Brother Smith was a man who could ever smile through tears.'This seems a fitting epitaph for a man who experienced much tribulation in his life, but overcame all to rise to greatness. Sources: "Biography of Willard G. Smith" by Cordelia Smith Reeder Ellingford, Mormon Biographies, Box 23, Folder 3, Item 3, Historical Department, The Church ofjesus Christ of latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City; "Life of Willard G. Smith" by W. E, Criddle, Book No. 5, Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum, Morgan.