iFocus.Life News News - Breaking News & Top Stories - Latest World, US & Local News,Get the latest news, exclusives, sport, celebrities, showbiz, politics, business and lifestyle from The iFocus.Life,

What were the details of Elvis Presley"s funeral?

106 14
Question: What were the details of Elvis Presley's funeral?

Answer: Thousands of fans converged on Memphis in the days following Elvis Presley's death, so many that President Carter ordered 300 National Guard troops to the area to maintain order. All city buildings in Memphis immediately lowered their flags to half-staff.

Elvis was embalmed at the Memphis Funeral Home and returned to Graceland on August 17, 1977, where a public viewing of the casket, ordered by Elvis' father, Vernon, was set up in the foyer.

Over 30,000 fans were let in.

Elvis Presley's funeral, held on the 18th, was a modest affair, though attended by stars such as his "Viva Las Vegas" co-star Ann-Margret, James Brown, and actor George Hamilton. (Everyone from Sammy Davis Jr. to Farrah Fawcett to Burt Reynolds to John Wayne were rumored to attend, but did not.) Held in Graceland's living room, It lasted from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and was led by Woodale Church of Christ pastor C.W. Bradley. Televangelist Rex Humbard gave a short sermon, followed by a testimonial from comedian Jackie Kahane, who often opened Elvis' shows. Other Elvis tour vets -- J.D. Sumner and the Stamps, the Statesmen, and Kathy Westmoreland -- performed some of Elvis' favorite hymns including "Heavenly Father."
Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up here to get the latest news, updates and special offers delivered directly to your inbox.
You can unsubscribe at any time
You might also like on "Society & Culture & Entertainment"

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.