Who Will Own Graceland After the Death of Lisa Marie Presley?
Whether you're a fan of Elvis Presley's music or couldn't even name one song, you cannot deny the impact "The King of Rock & Roll" had on the music industry. Though Elvis' loss is still mourned today, his family continues to honor his legacy through music and philanthropy, benefitting fans worldwide. Last week, the Presley family suffered another major loss: the death of singer-songwriter Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis and Priscilla's only child, 54. Many are now wondering — who will own Graceland, Elvis' estate in Memphis, Tennessee?
Lisa Marie Presley's Inheritance
The singer and philanthropist was rushed to the hospital after suffering an apparent cardiac arrest — unfortunately, she did not recover due to complications. She is survived by her mother, Priscilla, 77, and her daughters, actress Riley Keough, 33, and Harper and Finley Lockwood, 14.
As Elvis' only child, Lisa Marie had inherited Graceland, his iconic estate in Memphis, Tennessee, after her father’s death. It was put in a trust for her to inherit on her twenty-fifth birthday in 1993. Upon her inheritance, Lisa Marie created a new trust in its place, The Elvis Trust, to maintain the estate’s success, according to the property’s website. Priscilla has also remained involved in Graceland’s support and business management through the years.
The Significance and New Ownership of Graceland
The property has been significant to more than just the Presley family. In 2006, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, and it welcomes over 500,00 visitors annually, making it the most famous home in the US after The White House. Graceland is home to a museum of Elvis’ possessions, like his cars and bedazzled concert outfits, plus The Guest House, a place on the property where fans can stay.
Now that Lisa Marie has tragically passed on, People reports that Graceland will be passed down to Lisa Marie’s three daughters: Riley, and her twin half-sisters, Harper and Finley. The property is expected to remain a significant part of the family, as Lisa Marie will be laid to rest at Graceland, joining her father, grandparents, uncle, and her own late son, Benjamin Keough, who died in 2020 at age 27.
Mourning Lisa Marie Presley
The Presley family announced that there will be a public memorial service honoring Lisa Marie’s memory on the front lawn of Graceland at 9 a.m. on Sunday, January 22. It is open to the general public. Check Graceland’s website for additional details and updates.
For those who wish to contribute or pay their respects but can't make it to Tennessee, the family has requested you donate to The Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation (EPCF) instead of sending flowers. Graceland’s website explains that EPCF is an organization that supports education, arts, and programs for children local to the Memphis region. It was started in 1984 “to continue Elvis’ own tradition of generosity and community service,” according to EPCF’s website. Visit the donation page for more information on how to give.
Lisa Marie’s passing is a massive loss — but she will be remembered through her music (following in her father's footsteps, she released three albums as a recording artist) and her dedicated philanthropy work. We grieve alongside the Presley family and the nation as a whole during this difficult time.
