Obituary: Melvin “Mel” Didier, Sr. – Athletic Director and Head Basebal Coach – Sept. 10, 2017

Mel J. Didier, Sr., legendary MLB scout, college and high school coach, passed away in the evening of Sept.10th, 2017. He was 91. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Elena, and children Mel, Jr. (wife Susan), Bob, Cindee, Lori D. Stevens (husband Kevin), and brother Gerald (wife Marti). Mel was the son of Edith and Robert I. Didier, Sr. Mel was preceded in death by brothers Robert, Clyde, Raymond, and Pearce. Mel grew up in Baton Rouge and played sports for Catholic High.

He had a storied career at LSU (football and baseball). After college, Mel signed with the Detroit Tigers but a shoulder injury caused him to pursue a coaching career. He inspired countless young men at Catholic High (BR), Opelousas High, and Glen Oaks Sr. High in Baton Rouge.

Mel worked as a college coach at LSU (for Charlie Mac) and made a huge mark on the UL baseball program as their coach and Athletic Director.

Mel’s greatest work was in MLB baseball as a scout and in the front office of a few major league teams. He signed a number of MLB standouts before moving into the front office of the Expos, Mariners and D’Backs (3 major league expansion teams).

His ability to organize and create great farm systems made him highly sought after. He worked in Los Angeles (influencing the famous Kirk Gibson HR and a victory in the 1988 World Series).

 His latest role was a special advisor scout for the Blue Jays. Mel’s wife Elena asks in lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor the memory of Mel, please send donations to the Professional Baseball Scouts’ Foundation, 3914 Corte Cancion, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360. Funeral: St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Scottsdale, AZ on Monday, Sept. 25th at 11 AM. 

Posted in the Arizona Republic. Information provided by Elena Didier to the AN.

Athletic Network Footnote by Dr. Ed Dugas:
Click here for the 1981 Baseball Photo Gallery, Mel’s first year as USL Head Baseball Coach.

Click here for the 1982 Baseball Photo Gallery. Mel’s second year.

Click here for Mel’s Athletic Network Profile.