Clettes Presley: Age, Family, Career, Death, Wiki Biography

In the rich tapestry of Elvis Presley’s life and legacy, there exists a figure often overshadowed by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself, yet her influence on his early years was immeasurable. Meet Clettes Presley, formerly known as Cletus Smith, born on September 14, 1919, in the heart of Mississippi, a woman whose connection to Elvis transcends familial bonds. While Elvis’s meteoric rise to stardom is celebrated worldwide, Clettes Presley remains an unsung hero, the aunt who played an integral role in shaping the destiny of the musical legend.

In this article, we delve into the life and times of Clettes Presley, exploring her humble beginnings in the Mississippi countryside, her close-knit family ties, and her profound impact on Elvis’s formative years. Beyond her familial role, Clettes was a woman of resilience, love, and enduring spirit. Her story, though often overlooked, is a crucial thread in the fabric of Elvis’s life story, adding depth and dimension to the legend we know today. Join us on a journey through history as we unveil the remarkable life of Clettes Presley, the cherished aunt who left an indelible mark on the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Early Life of Clettes Presley- Growing Up in Mississippi

As Clettes Presley’s childhood unfolded in the picturesque landscape of Lee County, Mississippi, it was a time when rural life in the American South was defined by a strong sense of community and the daily rhythms of hard work. The Smith family, including Clettes, played an integral role in this close-knit world.

Their family residence, nestled on the Tupelo Eggville Road, served as the backdrop for Clettes’ formative years. This was more than just a house; it was a place where memories were woven into the very fabric of their existence. The Tupelo Eggville Road, winding through the heart of Lee County, Mississippi, was a thoroughfare where neighbors knew each other’s names and where the bonds of family and friendship ran deep.

Farming was not merely an occupation but a way of life for the Smiths. Their daily routine revolved around tending to the land, cultivating crops, and raising livestock. These were the values passed down from one generation to the next, instilling in Clettes a work ethic and a connection to the land that would remain with her throughout her life.

Of particular significance was the fact that Clettes Presley was the youngest among her siblings, a status that undoubtedly shaped her upbringing. In the year 1920, she was just an infant, yet she was surrounded by the love and care of her parents and six older siblings. The household hummed with the vitality of a large family, where shared responsibilities and shared dreams were the order of the day.

This backdrop of rural Mississippi, with its warmth and simplicity, laid the foundation for Clettes Presley’s future journey. It was a world where family bonds were unbreakable, and the values of hard work and resilience would serve her well in the years to come. As we delve deeper into her life story, we discover how this upbringing played a pivotal role in her connection to one of the most legendary figures in music history—Elvis Presley.

Clettes Presley’s Marriage to Vester L. Presley

While an official marriage record for Clettes Presley and Vester L. Presley remains elusive, their bond was one forged in the heart of Mississippi, where strong family ties and shared experiences often spoke louder than formal documents. Their connection would prove to be a significant chapter in both their lives.

By the year 1940, Clettes and Vester found themselves in Beat 3 of Lee County, Mississippi. This was not just a residence; it was a place where their love story continued to unfold. In this rural community, surrounded by the comforting embrace of family and familiar landscapes, they embarked on a journey together.

Notably, Clettes’ two brothers, Jonny and Tracy, also shared this household in Beat 3. Their presence highlighted the interconnectedness of the Smith family, where siblings remained close, offering each other support and camaraderie.

What adds a layer of intrigue to Clettes’ story is the familial connection that Vester L. Presley held. He was not just any individual; he was the brother of Vernon Presley, the father of none other than Elvis Presley. This connection, both familial and geographical, would ultimately link Clettes Presley even more closely to the rise of Elvis, the future King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Aunt of Elvis Presley

Clettes Presley’s significance in the Elvis Presley story goes far beyond her familial ties. She occupied a unique and cherished role as Elvis’s aunt, a relationship that would prove to be deeply influential in the life of the future King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

The bond between Clettes and Elvis transcended mere bloodlines; it was a connection forged in the warmth of family gatherings and the shared experiences of their formative years. Clettes, being the younger sister of Elvis’s mother, Gladys Love (Smith) Presley, played a pivotal role in young Elvis’s life.

One of the most intriguing aspects of their relationship was the influence that Clettes had on Elvis during his childhood. As the story goes, Clettes often regaled young Elvis with stories of their family’s history, instilling in him a sense of pride in their Southern heritage. Her tales of their shared upbringing on Tupelo Eggville Road and the values their family held dear left an indelible mark on Elvis, shaping his identity and the music he would go on to create.

Beyond the stories, Clettes provided a sense of continuity and stability in Elvis’s life. In a world that was rapidly changing, with Elvis on the cusp of becoming a global sensation, Clettes remained a constant source of comfort and familiarity. Her presence was a reminder of their shared roots and the values that had shaped them.

Anecdotes and stories of their bond have emerged over the years, painting a picture of a loving aunt who doted on her nephew. Whether it was offering words of encouragement during Elvis’s early attempts at singing or simply being there as a pillar of support, Clettes Presley played an integral role in Elvis’s journey.

Personal Life and Legacy of Clettes Presley

Clettes Presley’s life extended far beyond her role as Elvis Presley’s aunt, encompassing a rich tapestry of experiences, responsibilities, and contributions that left a lasting legacy both within her family and her community.

While her connection to Elvis is undoubtedly a significant part of her story, Clettes had her own life to lead and her own family to nurture. As a mother, she played a pivotal role in the lives of her children, guiding them with the same love and care that she had extended to her famous nephew. Her dedication to her family was a testament to the values instilled in her during her Mississippi upbringing.

In addition to her role as a mother, Clettes was a cornerstone of support for her extended family, contributing to the preservation of the Presley family legacy. Her presence at family gatherings and events served as a reminder of the enduring bonds that tied them together. Her stories, recollections, and anecdotes added depth and authenticity to the family narrative, ensuring that their history remained alive for future generations.

Within her community, Clettes was a well-respected figure known for her warmth and generosity. Her commitment to her neighbors and friends made her a beloved presence in the lives of those who knew her. She contributed not only through her actions but also through the values she represented—an embodiment of the Southern hospitality, resilience, and sense of community that defined her upbringing.

Clettes Presley’s Passing and Final Resting Place

On December 9, 1994, a somber moment cast a shadow over the Presley family and all who had known and loved Clettes Presley. She succumbed to the relentless battle against cancer, leaving behind a legacy that would forever be cherished. Her passing marked the end of an era and a poignant reminder of the impermanence of life.

In accordance with her wishes and with the reverence befitting her role in the Presley family, Clettes was laid to rest at the Forest Hill Cemetery Midtown in Memphis, Shelby County, Tennessee, USA. Her final resting place, located in Section 33A of this hallowed ground, became a focal point for those who sought to pay their respects and remember the woman who had played such a vital role in the life of Elvis Presley.

The significance of Clettes Presley’s resting place in Forest Hill Cemetery Midtown extends beyond mere geography. It is a place where the ties of family and heritage are reaffirmed, where the memories of the past are honored, and where the Presley legacy lives on. Her burial among the Presleys serves as a reminder of her integral role in shaping the family’s history and, by extension, the musical legacy of Elvis Presley himself.

As visitors stand by her graveside, they are not just paying homage to an individual but to the enduring spirit of a family whose story has touched the hearts of millions. Clettes Presley’s final resting place stands as a poignant symbol of the love, commitment, and bond that define the Presley family, transcending time and generations.

In remembering Clettes Presley and her resting place, we not only honor her memory but also celebrate the rich tapestry of the Presley family—a story of music, love, and the enduring power of family ties that continue to captivate and inspire the world.

Vester Presley: Brother of Elvis’s Father

Vester Presley, born on September 11, 1914, in Fulton, Mississippi, emerges as a distinct figure in the Presley family saga. As the brother of Vernon Presley, Elvis’s father, Vester’s life journey intersected with the world of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll in meaningful ways.

Vester’s connection to the Presley family was cemented through his marriage to Clettes Presley, formerly known as Cletus Smith. Their union created a bridge between two branches of the family tree, intertwining the destinies of the Presleys and the Smiths. Through their marriage, Vester and Clettes became not only life partners but also integral members of the larger Presley family, contributing to the fabric of their shared history.

One notable aspect of Vester Presley’s life is his role as a longtime guard at Graceland, the iconic mansion that served as Elvis Presley’s home and sanctuary. Guarding the gates of Graceland was not just a job for Vester; it was a position of trust and responsibility. In this role, he became a guardian of Elvis’s legacy, ensuring the privacy and security of the music legend’s final residence. His dedication to this duty reflects the deep respect and loyalty that the Presley family inspired in those close to them.

Conclusion

In the vibrant tapestry of the Presley family’s history, Clettes Presley, the beloved aunt of the legendary Elvis Presley, emerges as a figure of profound significance. Her remarkable life, interwoven with the destinies of her family members, leaves an indelible mark on the legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.