NASCAR Community Pays Emotional Tribute To Racing Legend Roy Hendrick As 71-Year Old Passes Away

The NASCAR community has been sharing heartfelt tributes following the death of Virginia race car driver Roy Hendrick, who passed away on a Saturday morning at the age of 71. Known for his substantial contributions to regional racing, Roy Hendrick’s legacy as a track champion at Southside Speedway and Chesterfield County resonates deeply within the community.

Roy Hendrick was not only a prominent figure in racing but also the son of Ray Hendrick, who is celebrated as the all-time wins leader at Martinsville Speedway and stands among NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. While he was born into a prestigious racing family, Roy established a distinct and revered path in the sport of his own.

The Martinsville Speedway’s president, Clay Campbell, released a heartfelt statement commenting:

“We’ve lost a great ambassador for NASCAR, and I’ve lost a great friend with the passing of Roy Hendrick. The last couple of years, he was always willing to bring the his father’s iconic Flying 11 to Martinsville to drive in the pace laps before our modified race. My prayers are with his family and friends. He will certainly be missed.”

Similarly, Dominion Speedway reflected on Roy’s indelible mark on the sport. Their statement described him as a persistent and dedicated ambassador of racing who drew from his father’s legacy while forging his own path.

“With profound sorrow, we bid farewell to Roy Hendrick, son of the legendary Ray Hendrick, a cherished figure in the racing community whose legacy continues to inspire and resonate deeply with fans and fellow racers alike. Born into a racing dynasty, Roy immersed himself in the exhilarating world of engines and tracks from a young age, mirroring his father’s determination, skill, and passion.

“Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Roy’s unwavering commitment to the sport he loved embodied the essence of perseverance and dedication inherent in the racing community. Ray Hendrick, renowned for his exceptional driving prowess and relentless competitiveness, left an indelible mark on stock car racing, a legacy that Roy carried forward with his own talent, love for the sport, and commitment to excellence.

“Together, they exemplified the pinnacle of racing, inspiring countless fans and aspiring racers with their achievements and fervor. As we commemorate Roy Hendrick, we celebrate his life, contributions to the racing community, and the enduring legacy he left behind through the memories he created on the track and the inspiration he offered to those with dreams of racing.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Roy’s family and friends during this challenging time. May Roy’s spirit continue to ignite the passion for racing in the hearts of all who knew him, his impact on the racing world a testament to his too-short yet profoundly influential journey. Rest in peace, Roy Hendrick.”

South Boston Speedway also posted an emotional message to social media:

“Our hearts are heavy today as we join the entire racing community in mourning the passing of our friend, the legendary Roy Hendrick.

“Hendrick, the son of late legendary racer Ray Hendrick, won South Boston Speedway’s first NASCAR Late Model Stock Car Division race in 1983 and won South Boston Speedway’s first NASCAR Late Model Stock Car Division championship that same year.

“Our love and prayers go our to all his friends and family. His memory and legacy will live on here forever.”