When Elvis Presley Ordered a Car for His Nurse—And She Tried to Refuse!

Elvis Presley, the man who forever altered the landscape of rock ‘n roll, is remembered not only for his legendary music and iconic moves but also for the lasting impact he had on those closest to him. Among those who cherished their time with the King of Rock is Marian J. Cocke, a nurse who cared for Presley at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis during the mid-70s. Nearly 28 years later, Marian can still recall the incredible moments she shared with Elvis—moments that would forever change both their lives.

It was the second week of January 1975 when Marian, a unit supervisor at the hospital, was unexpectedly assigned to care for Elvis Presley. His personal physician, Dr. George Nichopolus (affectionately known as Dr. Nick), had asked her to be the one to look after the shy superstar. Although it was her day off, Marian, ever the professional, agreed.

When she arrived at the hospital early one morning to meet Elvis, she was struck by an odd sensation as she entered the building. “The air was filled with static electricity. As I got closer to his room, I felt like I was floating on air. It was the craziest darn thing I’ve felt in my life,” Marian recalled. Inside his room, surrounded by his entourage, Elvis greeted her with a friendly grin. Their immediate connection was undeniable. “This is a good kid. He’s going to be a part of my life,” Marian thought.

Though Marian was never a fan of Elvis’ music before their meeting, their friendship quickly blossomed. Over the next few weeks, they became close, bonding over stories of family, interests, and life outside of the spotlight. Elvis was an excellent patient, and Marian admired his understanding and good nature.

Their bond deepened after Elvis left the hospital, with him gifting Marian a stunning gold cross dotted with diamonds and black onyx—an act that left Marian in tears as she tried to refuse. But Elvis insisted, simply saying, “Yes, ma’am, this is for you.”

Months later, after Elvis had returned to Las Vegas, Marian got an unexpected call from Dr. Nick. Elvis was unwell and would be returning to Memphis. When Marian arrived at the hospital, Elvis, always one to surprise, told her, “By the way, Miss Cocke, I’ve ordered you a car, and it will be here tomorrow.” Marian, ever humble, tried to refuse, saying, “That’s really nice of you Elvis, but I don’t need a car.” Elvis, with a firm yet playful response, replied, “Whether you need it or not, it’s been ordered, and it’ll be here tomorrow.”

True to his word, the following day, Marian saw a brand-new 1976 Grand Prix waiting for her outside. Elvis had bought her the car without hesitation, a gesture of his generosity. And as she drove off, Elvis, in his usual mischievous manner, teased, “Next time I give you a car, would you remind me to make sure my bed is made before I give you the keys?”

As the years passed, Marian’s relationship with Elvis grew stronger. She became his private duty nurse, assisting with medications and ensuring his health was carefully monitored. Though she refused to accept payment, she continued caring for him out of love and friendship.

Sadly, their time together was cut short. On August 16, 1977, after Elvis was found unresponsive at his Graceland home, Marian was devastated to learn that he had passed away from a heart attack. “My boy was gone,” Marian said of the tragic moment.

Though she still mourns Elvis’ death, Marian has found peace in celebrating his legacy. She hosts an annual Elvis Presley Memorial Event, with all proceeds from her book, I Called Him Babe: Elvis Presley’s Nurse Remembers, going to charitable organizations. The event, now in its 14th year, has drawn a large crowd, with special guests, entertainment, and music paying tribute to the King.

Marian has also traveled across the country and even Europe, speaking to Elvis Presley fan clubs about the unforgettable time she spent with him. She cherishes the friendships that have remained in her life, particularly with those at Graceland, including Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley.

“Though I wasn’t sure about this so-called ‘King of Rock ‘n Roll,’” Marian reflects, “Elvis was my friend, and I was protective of him when he was living, and I’m still protective of him. He meant a lot to me, and he’ll always mean a lot to me.”

In the end, it wasn’t just Elvis’ music or fame that made him memorable—it was his kindness, generosity, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved, including Marian J. Cocke, who will always remember her time with the King as one of the most extraordinary chapters of her life.