Priscilla Presley Says Family Had ‘No Privacy’ at Elvis’ Public Graceland Funeral: ‘There Wasn’t Room for Our Own Grief’

Priscilla Presley has recently unveiled details about the lack of privacy her family experienced at Elvis Presley’s public funeral. In her latest memoir titled “Softly, as I Leave You: Life After Elvis,” Priscilla reminisces about the challenges faced during Elvis’ funeral back in August 1977 at Graceland, the renowned Memphis estate of the rock ‘n’ roll legend. The memoir sheds light on the overwhelming scenes that unfolded during the public viewing of Elvis’ open casket, highlighting the intrusion of crowds and cameras around the estate, leaving little room for personal grieving.

During the funeral proceedings, which were broadcast nationally, streets surrounding Graceland were swarmed with thousands of grieving fans, prompting President Jimmy Carter to deploy the Air National Guard to assist local authorities in managing the large crowds. The heat and intensity of emotions in the crowd even led to individuals fainting amidst the chaos. Priscilla vividly recalls the somber atmosphere inside Graceland, with lines of strangers paying their respects to the departed icon, many of whom had travelled great distances to be there. The overwhelming influx of mourners made it challenging for the family to process their own grief.

A private funeral ceremony was held in the living room and music room of Graceland, where Priscilla found herself seated on the couch alongside Elvis’ father, Vernon Presley, and their daughter Lisa Marie Presley. The heart-wrenching moment of saying the final goodbye to Elvis in private brought a wave of realization that he was truly gone, leaving Priscilla and her daughter numb with the weight of their loss. In her memoir, Priscilla reflects on how Elvis’ passing felt like a part of her own essence had departed with him, expressing her struggle to come to terms with his absence and the void it left in her life.

Addressing the enduring conspiracy theories of Elvis faking his death, Priscilla dismisses such speculations in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, emphasizing her desire for Elvis to still be alive. Despite the passing of years, the impact of Elvis’ death continues to resonate strongly, with memories of the overwhelming public outpouring of grief and support etched in Priscilla’s recollections. The enduring legacy of Elvis Presley’s music and persona has kept his memory alive for generations of fans worldwide, serving as a testament to his iconic status in the music industry.

Priscilla’s candid reflections on the challenges faced during Elvis’ funeral offer a glimpse into the intimate struggles of a family thrust into the public eye during a moment of profound loss. Her account of navigating the tumultuous events surrounding the funeral paints a poignant picture of the pressures and emotions experienced amidst the backdrop of public mourning for a cultural icon. As fans and admirers continue to honour Elvis Presley’s legacy, Priscilla’s personal narrative adds a human touch to the larger-than-life persona of the legendary musician, underscoring the complexities of grief and remembrance in the wake of his untimely demise.