How do you remove the pinion pilot bearing retainer ring?

Any help is appreciated. How do you remove the pinion pilot bearing retainer ring on a ford 9 inch to replace the pinion pilot bearing? I have searched but not much info out there, I have read to "pry" it out but what do you use? I have tried multiple tools and ways to pry it out with no luck. Thanks, Jim

 

It should come right out, you prying the correct way? That cast retainer is "lipped".