Priscilla Presley paid tribute to Elvis Presley’s late nurse, Marian J. Cocke, who died recently at the age of 98. Cocke was in charge of Elvis’ care during his final years, attending to his medical requirements and keeping him company at the Graceland estate.
In an emotional Instagram post, Priscilla honored Cocke, acknowledging the role she played in her ex-husband’s life. “Marian, you will be greatly missed. Your spirit touched many people, especially Elvis. You were the person he always counted on,” her caption read, accompanied by a photo featuring herself, Cocke, and her late daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.
Elvis Presley’s nurse shared a bond with him beyond caregiving
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Cocke first met Elvis Presley in 1975 while working as a nursing supervisor at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis. She was not aware of who the music legend was at first and handled him like any other patient. Their working relationship soon became a close friendship, and Cocke subsequently worked as his private nurse at Graceland.
While there, Cocke managed Elvis’ medications, health, and blood pressure and would even stay up in the middle of the night with him just to talk. Though she never accepted payment for her care, Elvis showed his gratitude by gifting her a white Pontiac, a gesture she fondly remembered.
Marian J. Cocke’s loyalty is praised by fans and relatives
After news of her passing, Elvis Presley fans and friends have taken to social media to acknowledge Cocke’s unwavering dedication to the King of Rock and Roll. Most of them admired how she chose to look after him out of sheer sympathy and not for money, testifying to how close the two were.
Cocke chronicled her time with him in the 1979 autobiography I Called Him Babe: Elvis Presley’s Nurse Remembers, giving a glimpse into the legend’s final years. Her stories of long-night conversations and unwavering devotion have cemented her role in Elvis’ history. Fans mourn her death but also celebrate the lasting impact she made on one of music’s most legendary singers.