Elizabeth Clements Kendall was born at Liberty, Clay County, Missouri on May 17, 1836, a daughter of Ada Winchell and Albert Nephi Clements. "Mother" Clements washed and ironed for the Prophet Joseph Smith's family, and Elizabeth and her brothers delivered the finished articles in a little wagon. Many times they took popcorn and apples with them to give to members of the Smith family which seemed to please them very much. On one of these deliveries the Prophet asked Elizabeth if she would like to see the "mummies" which were kept in the attic. Naturally, she was thrilled and curious. At first Elizabeth was frightened when she saw them, but Joseph, noticing this, came to her side and laying his hand on her shoulder said, "If you will touch them you will never be afraid of the dead." This she did and he then placed his hand on her head and gave her a blessing. He told her she would be a great nurse and would care for and administer to many, and that she would accomplish various other needed services during her lifetime.