Marshall Raymond Dier, Jr.

On Friday, July 14th Marshall Raymond (Ray) Dier died at the age of eighty-nine. He was born in Kansas in 1934, moving to California when he was 6 months old.

He had a difficult childhood, becoming an alcoholic at a very early age. Through circumstances he called a miracle, he was able to get, and stay, sober for 69 years. He was very grateful and felt so blessed to have a deep faith to guide him through the AA program and the rest of his life. Because of this, he felt an obligation and commitment to sponsoring and mentoring people who were struggling. He had a deep empathy and wisdom that helped many people.

He was known for his sense of humor, wisdom, intelligence, and generosity. He had a lifelong love of jazz music and loved to play for others his favorite tunes. He studied a variety of topics in great depth including how the brain works, gambling, psychology, and more.

His career spanned multiple vocations as a construction worker, bar manager, pari-mutuel clerk, and then a professional poker player, before retiring. In his retirement, he found a passion for collecting and restoring antique slot machines.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Billie, his 5 children, 4 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

A memorial mass will be held Saturday, November 18th at 10:00 a.m. located at St. Cornelius Church in Long Beach.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401