Elvis Presley's Grandson's Tragic Death and Family's Heartbreaking Decisions
In a poignant revelation from Lisa Marie Presley's memoir, From Here to the Great Unknown, it has come to light that she kept her son Benjamin's body at home for two months following his tragic death in 2020. The memoir, completed by her daughter Riley Keough after Lisa Marie's own passing in January 2023, details the emotional turmoil surrounding Benjamin's suicide at the age of 27. Struggling with severe depression and addiction, Benjamin's death left a profound impact on his family, particularly his mother, who faced the agonizing decision of where to lay him to rest—either in Hawaii or at Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley.
Lisa Marie recounted the challenges she faced during this period, stating, "There is no law in the state of California that requires you to bury someone immediately." She kept her son's body in a separate bedroom, maintaining a specific temperature to preserve it. The memoir describes how this experience became a strange yet comforting routine for her as she coped with her grief. Lisa Marie and Riley honored Benjamin by getting matching tattoos, symbolizing their enduring love and connection to him.
The Emotional Journey of Grief and Healing
The memoir sheds light on the intense grief that Lisa Marie endured, as she expressed the struggle to stay alive for her remaining children, including Riley and her twins. The decision to keep Benjamin's body at home was not only rooted in her heartbreak but also in her inability to make immediate decisions about his burial. Lisa Marie's reflections reveal a mother’s profound love and the lengths she felt compelled to go to honor her son’s memory.
One particularly surreal moment involved a tattoo artist visiting their home to create matching tattoos. When the artist asked to see Benjamin's tattoos for reference, Lisa Marie unexpectedly led him to the room where her son's body lay, a moment Riley later described as one of the most absurd experiences of their lives. This act highlighted the depths of their grief and the unconventional ways they sought to cope with it.
A Final Farewell at Graceland
After two months, the family eventually held a funeral for Benjamin in Malibu, led by author Deepak Chopra. Ultimately, he was laid to rest at Graceland, alongside his grandfather Elvis Presley. Lisa Marie's own burial would follow years later at the same iconic site. This tragic narrative not only unveils the personal struggles of the Presley family but also serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support for those dealing with loss.
If you or someone you know may be at risk, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, which offers free, confidential support 24/7.
