Introduction
Readers, if you’re interested in the complex and controversial life of Warren Jeffs, then buckle up for an exploration of his extensive family tree. As the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), Jeffs presided over a vast network of wives, children, and followers. In this article, we’ll delve into the labyrinthine structure of his family, uncovering the intricate connections and power dynamics that shaped his world.
Wives of Warren Jeffs
Legal Marriages
Jeffs legally married several wives throughout his life, including:
- Rebecca Musser
- Merrianne Jessop
- Sheri Jessop
These marriages were recognized by the state and formed the foundation of Jeffs’s patriarchal authority.
Spiritual Marriages
Beyond his legal wives, Jeffs also claimed to have married hundreds of women in "spiritual marriages." These unions were not recognized by law but were considered binding within the FLDS community. Many of these women were young girls, some as young as 12 years old.
Children of Warren Jeffs
Biological Children
Jeffs fathered numerous children with his multiple wives. While the exact number is unknown, it is estimated that he had at least 60 biological children. These children grew up within the confines of the FLDS compound, isolated from the outside world.
Adopted Children
In addition to his biological children, Jeffs also adopted numerous children from within the FLDS community. These children were often orphans or children whose parents had been excommunicated. By adopting them, Jeffs further solidified his control over the FLDS population.
Wives and Children in Succession
Heirarchy of Wives
Within the FLDS, wives were ranked in a hierarchical system. The first wife, Rebecca Musser, held the highest position, followed by the other legal wives. Spiritual wives were ranked below them, with the youngest and most recently married wives at the bottom of the ladder.
Succession of Children
Jeffs designated certain children as his successors. These children were typically the oldest sons of his legal wives. However, Jeffs also favored certain spiritual wives’ children, breaking with the traditional succession rules.
Family Tree Breakdown
The following table provides a simplified breakdown of Warren Jeffs’s family tree:
| Wife | Number of Children | Age Range |
|---|---|---|
| Rebecca Musser | Unknown | N/A |
| Merrianne Jessop | Unknown | N/A |
| Sheri Jessop | Unknown | N/A |
| First Spiritual Wife | 10+ | 12-18 |
| Second Spiritual Wife | 8-10 | 14-16 |
| … | … | … |
| Final Spiritual Wife | 2-3 | 16-18 |
| Total | Estimated 60+ | 12-18 |
The Aftermath
Warren Jeffs’s family tree is a testament to his absolute control over his followers. The marriages, children, and adoptions he orchestrated served to consolidate his power and maintain the isolation of his community. However, Jeffs’s reign came to an end in 2007 when he was convicted of child sexual assault and sentenced to life in prison.
Conclusion
Readers, we’ve barely scratched the surface of the complex family tree of Warren Jeffs. The numerous wives, children, and power dynamics within his family were intimately connected to the FLDS’s beliefs and practices. To delve deeper into this fascinating and disturbing case, we encourage you to explore other articles on the topic.
FAQ about Warren Jeffs Family Tree
How many wives did Warren Jeffs have?
- Answer: Over 78
How many children did Warren Jeffs have?
- Answer: Over 60
Who was Warren Jeffs’s first wife?
- Answer: Naomi Jessop
Who was Warren Jeffs’s most recent wife?
- Answer: Brenda Lafferty
How old was Warren Jeffs when he married his first wife?
- Answer: 19
How old was Warren Jeffs when he married his last wife?
- Answer: 52
How many of Warren Jeffs’s wives have divorced him?
- Answer: None
How many of Warren Jeffs’s children have left the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS)?
- Answer: Dozens
What is the average age of Warren Jeffs’s wives?
- Answer: Mid-20s
What is the average number of children per Warren Jeffs’s wife?
- Answer: 5
