The words of John Taylor, incorporated into the Doctrine and Covenants as Section 135, include this praise for the Prophet, whose martyrdom he witnessed:
Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated! (D&C 135:3)
Memories: A Prophet’s Testimony of Joseph
Many years ago we lived next door to Ernie Wilkins and his wonderful family. Ernie was married to Maurine Lee, the daughter of president Harold B. Lee. President Lee would often come down to visit. One day when I was going out to get the mail, I noticed President Lee standing in the front yard of their home. I had met him before but was still nervous in going over and saying hello and striking up a conversation. Fear fled and I girded up my courage and went over and said hello. We visited and I asked him some questions and said that I sustained him with all my heart.
As I started to leave he said, “Wait, Brother Pinegar. I want to tell you something about the Prophet Joseph.” He said, “You mentioned that you sustain me as a prophet today and I am grateful for your faith and prayers. I want you to know how I love and sustain the prophet of the dispensation of the fulness of times—the Prophet Joseph. Yes, I am a prophet today, but Joseph—he was the prophet of the Restoration. I love and revere the Prophet Joseph.” I felt the depth of his love for the Prophet Joseph and the sincerity of his heart. I shall never forget the testimony of a prophet of God of the Prophet Joseph Smith. (Ed J. Pinegar)