For security purposes, Vernon Presley, with special permission from the city, had the gravesites of Elvis and his mother, Gladys, moved from Forest Hill Cemetery to Graceland in October 1977. Since then, the garden has become the final resting place for Elvis' father Vernon, paternal grandmother Minnie Mae, daughter Lisa Marie, and grandson Ben. A small marker has also been placed in memory of Elvis' stillborn twin brother. The large marble cross was Gladys Presley's original monument at Forest Hill, and the headstone, which features the Star of David to represent Gladys' Jewish heritage, was placed at her grave in December 1964. The statue of Jesus with outstretched arms was a gift to Elvis from his friends one Christmas. Meditation Garden was designed and built by Bernard Grenadier at Elvis' request in the mid-1960s. It features Italian statues, an elaborate fountain and special lighting. The brick wall behind the Grecian-inspired columns is inlaid with primitive stained-glass handmade in Spain in the mid-1800s. The garden offered Elvis a private serene area for meditation, reflection and quiet contemplation. It was one of his favorite places.
