Elvis died a broken man. He once remarked in the later part of his life "I hope I die onstage". He died at Graceland on August 16, 1977. His prone body was found in a bathroom. Several people were there, including his nine-year old daughter, Lisa-Marie. He was overweight; he had been abusing pharmaceuticals; his concerts were becoming an exercise in forgotten lyrics, and fighting with his band. But it seemed the world mourned the instant he died.

People continue to leave flowers at Elvis' grave, which are dutifully displayed until they wilt. A mass pilgrimage is made on the eve of Elvis' death every year, which includes a candle-lit procession through the Meditation Garden.