NASCAR Hall of Fame Statement on the Passing of Rex White
The following is a statement from NASCAR Hall of Fame Executive Director Winston Kelley on the passing of Rex White.
“First and foremost, on behalf of the NASCAR Hall of Fame team, I want to offer our most sincere condolences to Rex’s family and friends on his passing.
Growing up on a North Carolina farm, Rex familiarized himself with all things mechanical and enjoyed driving anything with wheels. He began his driving career in 1954 before moving to NASCAR’s premier series in 1956.
Rex captured NASCAR’s top prize as both a driver and car owner, winning the 1960 NASCAR Cup Series championship on the strength of six wins and 35 top 10 finishes in 40 starts. A short track specialist, Rex made a name for himself in an era when those tracks dominated the schedule. Of his 28 career wins in NASCAR’s premier series, 26 were on tracks of a mile or less. He accomplished that in only 233 total starts over a period of just nine years.
A member of the Class of 2015, Rex was among NASCAR’s pioneers who remained very visible at tracks and industry events for years. He was a dedicated ambassador who enjoyed supporting any event or activity he was requested to participate in.
NASCAR has lost one of its true pioneers and the NASCAR Hall of Fame team and I have lost one of our staunchest supporters and cherished friends. Rex’s legacy and incredible accomplishments in and contributions to NASCAR will forever remain in our hearts, minds, archives and at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.”
NASCAR Statement:
“We mourn the loss of NASCAR Champion and Hall of Famer, Rex White. Rex epitomized the formative days of NASCAR—a true pioneer whose contributions helped shape the foundation of our sport. His hard work, dedication and talent allowed him to make a living doing what he loved most – racing cars. He was the model of consistency – finishing in the top five in nearly half of his races – and dominated the short tracks. On behalf of NASCAR and the France family, I want to offer our condolences to the friends and family of Rex White.”
– Jim France, NASCAR chairman and CEO