Relief Society General President
1945–1974

Belle S. Spafford, an able teacher, writer, and administrator, led the Relief Society for nearly 30 years. After World War II the Relief Society helped with relief efforts for the people suffering in Europe. The organization shipped clothes, bedding, soap, and other necessities to war-torn areas. During the 1950s the Relief Society increased its emphasis on education, especially homemaker education and on social services. Sisters around the world raised funds for the Relief Society Building, which was dedicated in 1956. Membership rules for the Relief Society changed during the 1970s to automatically enroll all Latter-day Saint women ages 18 and older. Sister Spafford was widely known and respected outside the Church as well, and from 1968 to 1970 she served as president of the National Council of Women. She and her husband, Willis Earl Spafford, had two children.