Raybourne “Ray” Marler, 87, of Dittmer, formerly of Farmington, died Dec. 26, 2025, in Daytona Beach, Fla. Mr. Marler graduated as valedictorian from Esther High School in 1956. He attended the School of Mines in Rolla. He worked with his father at Marler’s Music Store in Park Hills. He and his wife became partners with Kenny Schrader of I-55 Raceway in Pevely and earned a place in the hall of fame for dirt racing. For 25 years, he played the organ for the First Church of Nazarene in Farmington. Throughout his life, he served on church boards, the Chamber of Commerce and tourism boards and was a member of the Lions Club in Park Hills. He enjoyed taking annual fishing trips to Canada, operating the racetrack and spending time with family and friends. Born June 24, 1938, in Bonne Terre, he was the son of the late Mabel (Richeson) and Hersel Marler.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years: Sue Marler; a son: David “Chip” (Shelly) Marler; two daughters: Shari Stanfill and Regina (Mark) Diehn; two granddaughters: Amanda Bosler and Sheena Stanfill; six grandsons: Jermey (Stacy) Marler, Nick (Chelsea) Marler, Zach (Kady) Stanfill, Dustin Stanfill, Clayton Stanfill and Bradley (Jayden) Stanfill; two siblings: Dr. Robert “Bob” (Deb) Marler and Alan Marler; five special friends: Mark Stanfill, Ken, Ann, Brian and Jennifer; and numerous other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by a son: Craig.
Visitation is scheduled from 3-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 4, at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home, 116 N. Desloge Drive, in Desloge. Visitation will continue from 9 a.m. until services at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 5, at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Van Williams, Pastor Brad Adams and Chaplain Tim Bozarth. Burial will follow in Hillview Memorial Gardens in Farmington. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of House Springs, 4375 Gravois Road, House Springs, 63051, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home.