The NASCAR community is in mourning. Ned Jarrett, an iconic Hall of Famer adnd two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, tragically passed away at 93 years old, according to the Tennessean.
According to his family, he died of natural causes at his home in Newton, North Carolina. His family released a statement confirming his tragic death on Friday June 5.
"Our father was a devout Christian and a devoted, loving family man," they wrote. "He was a friend to everyone he met and NASCAR's oldest living champion. By all accounts, he was a true NASCAR legend."
"While we mourn his passing, we celebrate the remarkable life of an amazing man and truly the best father anyone could have wished for. Rest in Peace, Dad."
And he truly was a titan of NASCAR. In his career, he won 50 career Cup Series, which were then known as Grand National Series. He also won two championships - one in '61, and the other in '65. He also won two championships in what is now known as the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.
After his legendary career, he was also known for bringing a younger generation NASCAR news as a broadcaster through both radio and television, where he worked for MRN Radio, ESPN, and CBS.
He is survived by his family, including his championship-winning son Dale Jarrett.
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Tributes Have Poured in for the NASCAR Legend
Fans and celebrities alike have mourned Ned Jarrett's passing.
In a statement released by NASCAR's CEO Steve O'Donnell, he praised Jarrett's storied career. "Despite his calm demeanor, 'Gentleman' Ned Jarrett was as fierce a force as NASCAR has ever seen. His on-track accomplishments speak for themselves with wins and championships across several NASCAR divisions."
He finished his statement by saying, "I offer my deepest condolences to all of Ned's family and friends on the loss of a NASCAR legend.
Commentors on social media also expressed their sadness over the loss of Jarrett. One wrote, "A true gentleman of the sport and an absolute racing icon. 93 years of a life incredibly well-lived," with another writing, "'Gentleman Ned' will be deeply missed by the entire racing community."
RIP to a true legend!
