May 9: The Colonel's Wife

It’s May 9, and on May 9, 2020, Loanne Parker passed away in Las Vegas at the age of 84. As the widow of Colonel Tom Parker—Elvis Presley’s longtime manager—Loanne played a unique role in the Elvis story. She first met Elvis and the Colonel in 1969 while working as an RCA Records tour secretary. Her professional relationship with Parker evolved into a personal one, and they married in 1990.Loanne was a steadfast defender of her husband’s legacy, challenging criticisms of his management style and decisions. In interviews, she described the Colonel as a tireless strategist who thought about Elvis “24/7,” constantly seeking ways to promote and protect his career.Though not in the spotlight, Loanne’s behind-the-scenes presence helped shape the business side of Elvis’s career during his touring years and beyond. Her passing marked the end of a direct link to one of the most pivotal partnerships in music history.