MINT HILL, NC – Marrio Darnell Grier was born in Charlotte on December 5, 1971. He played football at Independence High School from 1987 to 1989. He played his college football at Clemson University in 1992-1993, transferred to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to finish out a successful college athletic career. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 6th round of the 1996 NFL Draft, the 195th player to be selected.
Grier professionally played two seasons with the New England Patriots as a running back from 1996-1997. He played in Super Bowl XXXI, January 26, 1997. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL, and retired from the NFL. However, he returned to professional football as a running back and linebacker in the Arena Football League for the Carolina Cobras 2000-2002, and Colorado Crush in 2003.
After his football career Grier became a police officer in the Town of Matthews, then later for the City of Pineville serving the community for many years until his retirement. But his true love and passion was football, and to teach youngsters the game that played a huge part of his life. Therefore, coaching football was a natural fit for the next chapter of his career progression. He became an assistant coach at Butler High School after contacting Head Coach Brian Hales. He was deeply involved in the Charlotte community, and his dream was to develop a football foundation serving underprivileged youth in Charlotte.
Coach Hales defined Grier as one of the kindest, hardest working, and most loyal people he ever knew. He was a great and accomplished football player, but you would never hear that from him, said Coach Hales.
His high school football coach, Rusty Jester, summed up Grier as one of the greatest players at Independence, and one of the most beloved players in the history of the school.
Grier was a religious man, his family was everything to him, also, he was a huge fan and friends with the Dave Matthews Band. He enjoyed their music, played it often and loudly while singing along. He was an usher at Simpson Gillespie United Methodist Church.
His family, the community, Butler High School, Independence, and to all who knew him, as he touched many lives in a positive way, will certainly miss his presence. Grier passed on March 15, 2022, and is survived by his wife of 18 years, Deidra Grier, and two daughters, Nyla and Ava, along with other family members including his parents.
