Ned Jarrett, 93, dies; NASCAR mourns Hall of Famer in Newton

Ned Jarrett, a 93-year-old NASCAR Hall of Famer, died peacefully of natural causes at his home in Newton, North Carolina, surrounded by family, his relatives said. The family said they were mourning his loss while celebrating his life and legacy, and described Jarrett as a devout Christian, a devoted and loving family man and a friend to everyone he met. Until his death, he was NASCAR’s oldest living champion.

A champion driver, Jarrett had wins and championships across several NASCAR divisions and later built a six-decade broadcasting career. NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell called him "Gentleman Ned Jarrett," saying Jarrett’s calm, kind persona and fierce competitiveness helped him succeed in broadcasting and made him an outstanding ambassador who shaped how fans experienced the sport. Winston Kelley, executive director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, called Jarrett a pivotal figure in the sport’s history.