Sonny West (Delbert West, Jr.; July 5, 1937 – May 24, 2017) was an American actor and stunt performer. He was born in Memphis, Tennessee.
West was known for being a friend and bodyguard of the late singer Elvis Presley with his cousin Red West for sixteen years. He was part of the Elvis entourage at the Elvis Memphis home Graceland, which became known as 'The Memphis Mafia'.
Before and after Elvis' passing, West wrote several books, and made public appearances at Elvis related conventions and gatherings, speaking out on his time working for Presley and their relationship.
West died of lung and oropharyngeal cancer (tonsil cancer) in Hendersonville, Tennessee on May 24, 2017, aged 79.[1]