William Wallace Smith ((1900-11-18)November 18, 1900 – (1989-08-04)August 4, 1989) was a grandson of Joseph Smith Jr. and Prophet-President of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Community of Christ),[1] from October 6, 1958, to April 5, 1978, when he retired to "emeritus" status.

Also during his administration, the church saw significant doctrinal and practical changes, characterized by vigorous efforts in ecumenism, liberalism and internationalization of the group's message.

For several decades the idea of building of an "Independence Temple of Zion" had been part of RLDS Church tradition.

[6] In 1972, W. Wallace brought the concept to the forefront in a document that called for "defining the purpose and selecting the place for erecting a temple.

[2] To ensure a smooth transition, W.W. Smith read a letter of resignation shortly before his son was ordained.