Elvis's Death Commemorated At Graceland

Elvis Presley still lives … in the hearts of his adoring fans. Tuesay marks the 34th anniversary of the King's death at 42 in 1977, and fans won't let themselves forget it. Thousands gathered today at Elvis' estate in Graceland, Tennessee to commemorate his untimely death.

Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of the King of Rock and Roll with his wife, Priscilla, was touched by the show of affection fans still have for her late father. "Thank you so much for being here and continuing to honor the legacy of my father," she said in a message that was read to fans at Graceland's gates.

The fans, some of whom were actually born after Elvis' death, were also moved. "I had a mixed childhood," said Bill Rowe, the first person in line for today's entrance into Graceland. This is his 20th year commemorating the rock legend's death by being in the first spot, reports the Baltimore Sun. "Sometimes I had friends, at other times I didn't. When I really didn't think I had any friends, there was Elvis," he said.

Young or old, Elvis' fans come from all over the world to participate in the week-long events that Graceland holds in the King of Rock n' Roll's honor. Somewhere between 30,000 and 40,000 people showed up to Graceland just to attend the candlelight vigil. Next year, at the 35th anniversary of his death, 75,000 people are expected to attend. Lisa Marie and Priscilla will be among them.