Who Rests Beside Elvis Presley's Grave At Graceland?

Prof. Alan Morissette DVM 09 Aug 2025

Have you ever found yourself wondering about the final resting places of famous people, especially someone as iconic as Elvis Presley? It's a natural curiosity, isn't it? People often visit places like Graceland not just to see where a star lived, but also to pay their respects where they were laid to rest. There's a quiet sense of connection, a way to feel close to a legend, even after they've passed on. So, too it's almost, many folks ask, "Who is buried next to Elvis Presley's grave?"

Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, left an incredible mark on music and culture. His influence still resonates today, decades after his passing. His home, Graceland, in Memphis, Tennessee, has become a pilgrimage site for fans from all over the world, a place where his memory is kept alive.

But beyond the mansion tours and the memorabilia, there's a quieter, more personal part of Graceland: the Meditation Garden. This is where Elvis, his family, and a few others found their eternal peace. It's a very peaceful spot, really, and it holds a deep meaning for those who loved him. Let's take a look at who shares this special ground with the King.

The Sacred Grounds of Graceland
- A Place of Peace and Remembrance
- Why Graceland Became the Final Resting Place
Who Rests Beside the King?
Visiting Graceland: A Pilgrimage for Fans
- What to Expect When You Visit
- Showing Respect at the Memorial Garden
The Meaning of Being "Buried"
Frequently Asked Questions

The Sacred Grounds of Graceland

A Place of Peace and Remembrance

Graceland, as you might know, is more than just a house; it's a very special estate that Elvis Presley called home. It's where he felt most comfortable, a place of family and quiet moments, away from the constant demands of his career. The Meditation Garden, which is part of the estate, was something Elvis himself designed as a place for reflection. It's a spot where he could go to think and find some calm. This garden became the natural choice for his final resting place, a decision made by his family after his passing. It's a serene space, really, with a fountain and statues, inviting quiet contemplation.

Why Graceland Became the Final Resting Place

Originally, Elvis was laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery in Memphis, just a little while after his death in August 1977. However, there was an attempt to disturb his grave, which understandably caused a lot of concern for his family. To ensure his peace and security, and that of his mother, it was decided that their remains would be moved to Graceland. This relocation happened in October 1977. So, that's why, basically, they are at Graceland today. It was a move driven by love and a desire to protect their memory.

Who Rests Beside the King?

When people visit the Meditation Garden at Graceland, they often notice that Elvis isn't alone. He is surrounded by family members, creating a very personal and touching memorial. It's a place where the family remains together, in a way, forever connected. Here's a closer look at the people who share this quiet space with Elvis.

Elvis Presley: A Brief Look

Before we talk about who is next to him, it helps to remember a few details about the King himself.

Full Name	Elvis Aaron Presley
Born	January 8, 1935, Tupelo, Mississippi
Died	August 16, 1977, Memphis, Tennessee
Years Active	1954–1977
Known For	"King of Rock and Roll," revolutionary music, iconic performances.

Gladys Love Presley: Elvis's Beloved Mother

Right next to Elvis, you will find the grave of his mother, Gladys Love Presley. Gladys was incredibly important to Elvis. She was his rock, his confidante, and a huge source of support throughout his life. Their bond was very, very strong, and he often spoke about how much she meant to him. She passed away on August 14, 1958, when Elvis was serving in the Army in Germany. Her passing was a huge blow to him, a loss he felt deeply for the rest of his days. It's fitting, then, that she is placed right there with him, a symbol of their enduring connection.

Vernon Elvis Presley: His Devoted Father

Also resting in the Meditation Garden is Elvis's father, Vernon Elvis Presley. Vernon played a significant role in Elvis's career, managing many of his business affairs and looking after his finances, especially in the early days. After Gladys passed, Vernon became even more central to Elvis's life, a constant presence. Vernon lived at Graceland until his own passing on June 26, 1979. He was, in a way, the head of the family after Gladys was gone, and his presence near Elvis continues that family bond.

Minnie Mae Hood Presley: His Cherished Grandmother

You will also find the grave of Minnie Mae Hood Presley, Elvis's paternal grandmother. Affectionately known as "Dodger," Minnie Mae was a beloved figure in the Presley household. She lived at Graceland for many years and was a warm, comforting presence for Elvis and his family. She passed away on May 16, 1980. Her inclusion in the Meditation Garden further emphasizes the family-centric nature of this burial site. It shows that, quite literally, the family is all together.

Benjamin Keough: A Recent and Heartbreaking Addition

In a more recent and very sad development, Elvis's grandson, Benjamin Keough, was also laid to rest in the Meditation Garden. Benjamin, the son of Lisa Marie Presley and Danny Keough, passed away on July 12, 2020. His passing was a tremendous loss for the Presley family and for fans who saw a resemblance to Elvis in him. His burial at Graceland continues the family tradition of keeping loved ones close, a very poignant addition to the garden. It's a reminder that, in some respects, the family continues to grow, even in this sacred space.

Visiting Graceland: A Pilgrimage for Fans

What to Expect When You Visit

Visiting Graceland is an experience for many reasons, but for a lot of people, seeing the Meditation Garden is a very moving part of the trip. The garden is typically the last stop on the Graceland mansion tour. You walk through the mansion, see Elvis's cars, his jumpsuits, and then you come to this quiet, reflective area. It's a place where you can take a moment, pay your respects, and just feel the history. You know, it's pretty powerful.

Showing Respect at the Memorial Garden

When you visit the Meditation Garden, it's a place for quiet reflection. Visitors are asked to show respect for the family resting there. People often leave flowers or small tokens of remembrance. It's a way of saying thank you, or simply acknowledging the impact Elvis had on their lives. It's a very personal moment for many, a chance to connect with the legacy in a very real, tangible way. Learn more about visiting Graceland on our site, and plan your trip to this special place.

The Meaning of Being "Buried"

The word "bury" means to dispose of by depositing in or as if in the earth. It's a way to inter with funeral ceremonies, a final act of laying someone to rest. When we talk about someone being buried, it means they are placed in the ground and covered with earth, a tradition that goes back a very long time. For the Presley family, being buried together at Graceland means they are, in a way, absorbed, engrossed, and devoted to each other even in their passing. It’s a permanent commitment, a final home. You can see examples of buried used in a sentence, and it always refers to this kind of placement. It’s a very simple yet profound act, basically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Elvis Presley buried?

Elvis Presley is buried in the Meditation Garden at his former home, Graceland, in Memphis, Tennessee. His grave is a central part of the public tour of the estate.

Who else is buried at Graceland?

Besides Elvis, his mother Gladys Love Presley, his father Vernon Elvis Presley, his paternal grandmother Minnie Mae Hood Presley, and his grandson Benjamin Keough are also buried in the Meditation Garden at Graceland.

Can you visit Elvis Presley's grave?

Yes, you can visit Elvis Presley's grave as part of the Graceland mansion tour. The Meditation Garden, where the graves are located, is the final stop on the tour, allowing visitors to pay their respects. For more information on visiting, check out the official Graceland website here.

So, when you consider who is buried next to Elvis Presley's grave, you find a story of family, love, and a lasting connection. It's a quiet testament to the man behind the legend, and the people who meant the most to him. It's a very touching sight, and one that adds a lot to the Graceland experience. We hope this has given you a clearer picture of the King's final resting place and the loved ones who share it with him. You might like to learn more about the history of Graceland and its significance.

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Who Rests Beside Elvis Presley's Grave At Graceland?

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