Next week marks the 49th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s untimely death at just 42. Among those who knew the King attending Elvis Week at Graceland this year is former Miss Tennessee model Linda Thompson. The 76-year-old was the King’s longest relationship after Priscilla Presley and she lived with the star at the Memphis mansion from 1972-6. Today, the old flame has posted a gallery of couple photos from Elvis’ final years with a special message for fans.
Linda captioned her post: “Each year in August, devoted fans from around the world convene in Memphis to celebrate and commemorate the life and legacy of the legend…the icon, Elvis Presley. I was incredibly blessed to be his love for 4 1/2 years, living with him at Graceland, and traveling with him on tour and leisurely for all those years. If you really want to know who spent the most time with Elvis during those last years of his life, all you have to do is look at the photo proof. All this before cell phones or social media…”
Linda added: “Most of the photographs are candids taken by fans or paparazzi…some in Las Vegas…All depicting the time and the love we shared. Way too many to post here. Some have tried to rewrite history, but the truth will always remain the truth. I’m looking forward to sharing some of these precious memories & truths with the most wonderful fans in the world who will be in Memphis August 8 through the 16th. I hope I get to say hi to you during that time. Sending love & gratitude always…”
