N. Eldon Tanner
Nathan Eldon Tanner (May 9, 1898-November 27, 1982) was a leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Named to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in October 1962, he was still its most junior member one year later when he was promoted to the First Presidency as Second Counselor to President David O. McKay. He remained in this position for the presidency of Joseph Fielding Smith (1970-1972), and then became First Counselor to Smith's successor Harold B. Lee, remaining First Counselor to Lee and Spencer W. Kimball until his own death. It was during Kimball's presidency that Tanner was called upon to read in Church General Conference the revelation to President Kimball that race was no longer to be a barrier to ordination to the priesthood. Not long afterward,Tanner's health deteriorated and it became impossible for him to shoulder the burdens of his office.With President Kimball and Second Counselor Marion G. Romney also ailing,the decision was made to add an additional Counselor to the First Presidency on July 23, 1981, Gordon B. Hinckley being chosen. Tanner retained the title of First Counselor until his death the following year at age 84. Often referred to as N. Eldon Tanner.
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