LIAM (BILLY) MARKS

It’s with sadness we must report the passing, after an illness, of one of the well-known and influential men in greyhound racing over the past two decades, Liam Marks.

Liam was involved in greyhound racing for many decades but it was through his association and later partnership with Dolores Ruth that he became one of the central figures in the sport in the early 2000s.

Dolores and Liam truly were a force of nature, winning the Derby with Razldazl Billy before embarking on a journey with their legendary brood Razldazl Pearl. The latter threw countless superstars including another Derby champion Razldazl George, dual classic winner Razldazl Rioga, Champions Stakes winner Makeshift, dual Shelbourne 600 winner Kingo, the brilliant Razldazl Jayfkay, Razldazl Bugatti, Razldazl Alice and so many more star names.

It seems around that time that Liam was at the track every Saturday night cheering on one of his stars to glory. Scarcely in the history of the sport has there been a period of such domination from an owner/trainer combination that matched that of Liam and Dolores.

In more recent times, Dolores has acted as the chief caregiver for Liam. The pair were inseparable for the last twenty plus years of Liams life and our thoughts are with Dolores at this time.

Liam was certainly a character. He had strong opinions and was never afraid to express them, nor was he afraid to celebrate his wins and there were many. Off the track he was a successful business man and also gave plenty back. He was one of the driving forces behind the fundraising efforts for the Irish Sri Lankan Tsunami Relief Fund, which eventually raised over €250,000.

The track just won’t be the same without Liam. Have no doubt, he left his mark and his legacy will continue with so many of the progeny of his stars producing on the track.

We would likely to take this opportunity to send our condolences to Dolores Ruth, who hasn’t just lost a friend and inspiration but a partner, Liam’s son Philip, his daughter Camilla, his grandchildren, extended family and many friends.

May He Rest In Peace.    

Funeral Notice

The death has occurred of Liam (Billy) Marks, Sandymount, Blackrock, Co. Louth on 14th July 2024 who passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home, surrounded by his loving family. Liam, son of the late Billy and Rosaleen Marks, husband of the late Carmel née Sweeney, loving father of Philip and Camilla, dear granddad of Isobel and the late Lauryn Rose, brother of Rosemary, cousin of Sean and friend Dolores. Liam will be sadly missed by his son, daughter, granddaughter, sister, cousin, friend, son-in-law Derek, Philip’s partner Laura, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May He Rest in Peace.

Liam will repose at McGeoughs Funeral Home, Jocelyn Street (A91 XW66) from 3pm until 7pm on Tuesday. Removal on Wednesday morning from Sandymount, Blackrock to St. Mary’s Church, Knockbridge, arriving for Mass at 11am.Burial afterwards in adjoining Cemetery.

House Strictly Private at all times.