The Memphis Mafia: Still Kickin' or Rest in Graceland Peace?
Elvis Presley's inner circle, the legendary Memphis Mafia, were more than just bodyguards. They were confidantes, pranksters, and the guys who (allegedly) helped him scarf down mountains of peanut butter and banana sandwiches at 3 AM. But with the King himself shuffling off this mortal coil in 1977, you might be wondering: how many of the Memphis Mafia are still livin' it up, reminisce about the good ol' days?
The Not-So-Live Ones: Those Guys Have Left the Building
Sadly, most of the Memphis Mafia have joined Elvis in the big rock 'n' roll hall of fame in the sky. Sonny West, the karate champ who guarded the King's karate chops, passed away in 2017. Joe Esposito, who managed Elvis' affairs, shuffled off this mortal coil in 2016. And Marty Lacker, a close friend since high school, kicked the bucket in 2017 too.
The King's Last Man Standing: Enter Billy Smith
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
That leaves us with Billy Smith, Elvis' cousin and one of the few folks who knew him before the blue suede shoes and screaming fans. Billy was there for the whole ride, from Tupelo, Mississippi to Graceland's gilded gates. And as of today, he's the last surviving original member of the Memphis Mafia.
Hold on, Wasn't There a Bunch of Dudes in the Memphis Mafia?
You'd be right, there were! The Memphis Mafia wasn't a secret society with a strict membership list. It was a loose group of friends and associates who formed Elvis' inner circle. Some, like Billy Smith, were there from the beginning. Others, like Jerry Schilling, who became a movie producer, came on board later.
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
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| How Many Members Of The Memphis Mafia Are Still Alive |
So, How Many Are Left?
Here's the short answer: just Billy Smith.
Tip: Reread sections you didn’t fully grasp.
But Wait! There's More!
There are a few folks still around who were close to the Memphis Mafia, even if they weren't OG members. George Klein, a longtime friend of Elvis, is still going strong. Priscilla Presley, the King's ex-wife, is also kicking around.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
How to Memphis Mafia Like a Boss: FAQ
- How to become a member of the Memphis Mafia (since they aren't exactly recruiting anymore): You're about a few decades too late, sweetheart. But you can learn everything you ever wanted to know about them in books, documentaries, and interviews.
- How to dress like a Memphis Mafia member: Think sharp suits, aviator sunglasses, and maybe a questionable comb-over.
- How to throw a Memphis Mafia-worthy party: Stock up on bananas, peanut butter, and enough fried food to feed a small army. Don't forget the rock 'n' roll!
- How to avoid getting into trouble like the Memphis Mafia (allegedly) did: Maybe skip the karate and late-night shenanigans. Just enjoy the music!
- How to meet Billy Smith, the last remaining Memphis Mafia OG: Keep an eye out for Elvis events and conventions. He frequently makes appearances and loves to chat with fans.
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