Family
A timeline of the Presley family and biographies of its key members.
Presley Family Timeline
1935 - A King is Born
Elvis Aaron Presley is born in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Vernon and Gladys Presley. His identical twin brother, Jesse Garon, is stillborn.
1946 - First Guitar
For his eleventh birthday, Elvis receives his first guitar, purchased from Tupelo Hardware Company. This gift would change the course of music history.
1948 - Move to Memphis
The Presley family moves to Memphis, Tennessee, in search of better opportunities. The city's rich musical environment heavily influences young Elvis.
1958 - Tragedy Strikes
While serving in the U.S. Army, Elvis suffers the loss of his beloved mother, Gladys. Her death at age 46 has a profound and lasting impact on him.
1967 - Marriage
Elvis marries Priscilla Beaulieu in a private ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada.
1968 - Lisa Marie is Born
Elvis and Priscilla welcome their only child, Lisa Marie Presley. She would grow up to be the sole heir to the Graceland estate.
1977 - The King's Passing
Elvis Presley dies at his home, Graceland, at the age of 42, leaving a legacy that continues to influence music and culture worldwide.
2023 - A Painful Loss
Lisa Marie Presley dies at the age of 54, leaving behind a musical legacy of her own and her family's enduring dynasty.
Family Biographies
Vernon Presley (1916-1979)
Elvis's father, Vernon, worked various odd jobs to support his family. He managed Elvis's business affairs and finances throughout his son's career and lived at Graceland. After Elvis's death, Vernon was an executor of his estate.
Gladys Presley (1912-1958)
Elvis shared a very close bond with his mother, Gladys. Her sudden death at age 46 in 1958, while Elvis was in the Army, was a devastating loss that affected him for the rest of his life. Elvis's first recording was a song he made as a gift for her.
Priscilla Presley (b. 1945)
Priscilla met Elvis in Germany when she was 14. They married in 1967 and had their daughter, Lisa Marie, a year later. After their divorce in 1973, she became a successful businesswoman, turning Graceland into a major tourist attraction.
Lisa Marie Presley (1968-2023)
As the only child of Elvis, Lisa Marie followed in her father's footsteps as a singer-songwriter. She was the sole heir to the Elvis Presley estate and was dedicated to preserving her father's legacy. She passed away at the age of 54. For more, visit rememberinglisa.com.
Minnie Mae Presley (1890-1980)
Elvis's paternal grandmother, whom he affectionately called "Dodger." She lived with Elvis at Graceland and was a constant, beloved presence in his life. She is buried alongside the family in the Meditation Garden.
Delta Biggs (1919-1993)
Elvis's paternal aunt, Delta, moved to Graceland in the 1960s after her husband's death. She served as a housekeeper and was known for being a protective figure in Elvis's household until her passing.
Billy Smith
Elvis's first cousin and one of his closest friends. Billy grew up with Elvis and was a member of the "Memphis Mafia." He lived on the Graceland grounds with his family and was with Elvis on the day he died. He and his wife, Jo, share their memories on their YouTube channel, Elvis Fans Matter.
Patsy Presley
Patsy is Elvis's cousin, the daughter of his uncle Vester. She worked as a secretary at Graceland for many years and remains involved with fans and events, sharing memories of her famous cousin.