Minnie Mae Presley, also known as Dodger, was the paternal grandmother of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. She was a constant presence in his life, living with him and his parents at their various homes in Memphis, including Graceland. She even traveled to Germany with Elvis while he was stationed there during his military service. But how did Minnie Mae Presley die? What was her cause of death? In this article, we will explore the life and death of Elvis’ grandma, who was a source of inspiration and comfort for him.
Early Life and Marriage
Minnie Mae Presley was born on June 17, 1890, in Fulton, Mississippi, to Mary Louisa and William H. “Buck” Hood. She was one of the descendants of the Hoods, who came to Itawamba County from Alabama in the 1830s. Her birthplace was a log cabin built by her ancestor Joshua Hood, which still stands today. According to Graceland, there are many Hood relatives still living in the area.
Minnie Mae married Jessie D. McDowell Presley on July 20, 1913. The couple had five children: Vernon (Elvis’ father), Vester, Delta Mae, Gladys Erlene Dowling, and Rev. Nashval Lorene Pritchett (Presley). Minnie Mae and Jessie’s marriage gradually deteriorated and the couple unofficially separated. She moved in with her son Vernon, his wife Gladys, and their son Elvis. Minnie Mae and Jessie officially divorced in 1954.
Relationship with Elvis
Minnie Mae Presley had a close bond with her grandson Elvis, who nicknamed her “Dodger”. He said that no matter what life threw her way, she always came through it in the end. She supported him throughout his career, from his humble beginnings in Tupelo to his rise to fame in Memphis. She witnessed his first public performance at a talent show when he was 10 years old, and his last concert at the Market Square Arena in Indianapolis on June 26, 1977.
Minnie Mae lived with Elvis and his parents at all of their homes in Memphis, including Graceland. She also accompanied him to Germany when he was drafted into the army in 1958. She helped him cope with the loss of his mother Gladys, who died of a heart attack in 1958. She also welcomed Priscilla Presley into the family when Elvis married her in 1967. She adored her great-granddaughter Lisa Marie Presley, who was born in 1968.
Minnie Mae Presley was proud of Elvis’ achievements and loved him unconditionally. She often attended his concerts and watched his movies. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, and playing cards with him. She was a gentle and kind woman who had a strong faith in God.
Death and Legacy
Minnie Mae Presley died on May 8, 1980, in Memphis, Tennessee. She was 89 years old. According to IMDb, her cause of death was cardiac arrest due to congestive heart failure. She had been suffering from poor health for several years before her death.
She is buried at the Meditation Garden at Graceland near her son Vernon, daughter-in-law Gladys, and grandson Elvis. Thousands of fans visit their graves every year to pay their respects and honor their memory.
Minnie Mae Presley was a beloved grandmother who had a profound impact on Elvis’ life. She gave him love, support, and guidance throughout his journey. She was his Dodger, his angel, and his inspiration.