Richard Childress Racing pit crew member Donald “D.J.” Richardson, Jr., passed away December 25 in a Massachusetts hospital from complications of the H1N1 virus. He was 37. Richardson, of Leominster, Mass., contracted the H1N1 virus over the Thanksgiving holiday. He was admitted to Health Alliance Hospital in Leominster for evaluation, where it was determined he was suffering from acute respiratory distress syndrome. “All of us at RCR are saddened by D.J.’s passing,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “D.J. was a gifted tire changer, one of the greatest team players in the business and a valued member of the RCR family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.” Richardson joined RCR in July 2009 and finished the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season as the rear-tire changer for the #29 Shell-Pennzoil Chevy team. He began his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career with Andy Petree Racing in 1999. He has also worked for Penske Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and Braun Racing. “I am shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and teammate,” said Matt Clark, director of human performance and leadership development of Richard Childress Racing. “Anyone who knew D.J. realized that below the tough exterior was a caring father, friend and teammate. He had a huge heart and would do anything to help someone in need. D.J. loved changing tires and was recognized as one of the top pit athletes at the position. I want to extend my condolences to his family and friends.” Details of memorial services in Massachusetts and North Carolina are pending and will be made available as soon as possible.(RCR)
sites a couple sites were set up for Richardson, some notes can be left on the facebook group: Get Well DJ-Updates and a website was setup for Richardson at getwelldj.com.(12-26-2009)
Arrangements: Viewing is scheduled for Tuesday, December 29th at Sailas F Richardson and Son Funeral home from 4:00-8:00 pm/et. 106 West Street, Leominster, MA 01453 (978) 534-9137. The Funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, December 30th at St. Marks Church, 60 West Street, Leominster MA 01453 at 11:00am/et. A memorial service is planned for the future, details posted when known.(12-27-2009)
North Carolina Memorial Service: A memorial service is scheduled in North Carolina for DJ Richardson on Saturday, January 9th at 3:00pm/et. Grace Covenant Church, 17301 Statesville Road [Hwy 21], Cornelius, NC 28031 [Located between I-77 exits 25 & 28 – next to Home Depot]
Grace Covenant is only hosting the memorial but is not responsible for the planning of the event [please do not call]. Members of the NASCAR community are asked to wear “race day” crew shirts if possible (past or present). DJ was not a suit & tie guy, so it’s ok to come like you are heading to the track (black jeans & crew shirt). It will be awesome for the family to see all of the NASCAR support.(1-1-2009)
