Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
“Stay a little longer, dear,” she said, her voice gentle yet resonating with experience. “There’s something I want to tell you. Someone, I don’t know who, called here and said that I was old, ugly, and embarrassing Elvis, and that I shouldn’t appear in public. Well, when Elvis heard that, he got really angry.” Tears glistened in the older woman’s eyes as she continued her story. “Do you know what he did? He insisted on driving one of his luxury cars and took me all over town. Then he took me for a walk all over Memphis, walking up and down the streets with his arm around me, just to show them how much he really cared.”
That was a touching conversation between Joyce and Minnie Mae, also known as “Dodger,” Elvis’s grandmother. Elvis Presley had a deep love for his grandmother, an affection that transcended the fame and glitz of his life. He would never leave Graceland without visiting her room. Minnie Mae, with her wisdom and unconditional love, was a steadfast pillar in Elvis’s life, providing peace and a touch of normalcy in his often chaotic world.
Whenever Elvis had a girlfriend, he would bring her to meet Dodger. This act not only demonstrated his profound respect for his grandmother but also served as a way to introduce important people in his life into his innermost family circle. For Elvis, Dodger’s approval was likely a significant sign, a confirmation that the woman was suitable to enter his life. The event of Elvis publicly driving his grandmother around Memphis after hearing the harsh words reveals his unwavering devotion and loyalty. It was a powerful act, not only to protect her but also to send a clear message to anyone who dared to insult his caretaker. This story illustrates a beautiful and lesser-known aspect of Elvis: a man who loved his family and was willing to stand up and protect those he held dearest.