1977 SPECIAL REPORT: "THE FUNERAL OF ELVIS PRESLEY"

Thousands of fans converged on Memphis in the days following Elvis Presley's death, so many that President Carter ordered 300 National Guard troops to the area to maintain order. All city buildings in Memphis immediately lowered their flags to half-staff. Elvis was embalmed at the Memphis Funeral Home and returned to Graceland on August 17, 1977, where a public viewing of the casket, ordered by Elvis' father Vernon was set up in the foyer. Over 30,000 fans were let in.

Elvis Presley's funeral, held on the 18th, was a modest affair, though attended by stars such as his "Viva Las Vegas" co-star Ann-Margret, James Brown, and actor George Hamilton. Held in Graceland's living room, it lasted from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Wooddale Church of Christ pastor C.W. Bradley led the sermon, which also featured a testimonial from comedian Jackie Kahane, who often opened Elvis' shows.

Other Elvis tour vets -—J.D. Sumner and the Stamps, the Statesmen, and Kathy Westmoreland — performed some of Elvis' favorite hymns including "Heavenly Father."

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