Judy Allison, the wife of legendary racer and NASCAR Hall of Fame member Bobby Allison, passed away Friday, according to a family statement. She was 74 years of age.
Her husband, Bobby, was the 1983 NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion, with 85 wins to his credit.
The Allison family released the following statement Friday night:
“The Allison Family is sad to announce the passing of Judy A. Allison, age 74, after complications from surgery earlier today at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville.
“Bobby Allison, NASCAR Hall of Famer driver, and Judy were married for 55 years. She was surrounded by her family, daughters Bonnie Farr and Carrie Hewitt, grandson Robbie Allison, brother-in-law Donnie Allison and his wife, Pat.
“At this time, funeral and memorial arrangements are pending and will be announced when finalized. The family members ask for privacy during this difficult and sad time.”
NASCAR also released a statement on Allison’s passing.
“NASCAR extends its condolences to the friends and family of Judy Allison, the wife of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison,” the statement reads. “Judy, the matriarch of a cornerstone NASCAR family, provided the foundation for the careers of a legendary husband and two sons who both lost their lives entirely too soon. Her love extended well beyond her own family, as many in the NASCAR family leaned upon Judy for support and compassion during many difficult times.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true friend, and a woman who has given much to our sport.”
Two of Judy’s sons, Clifford and Davey, followed their father into racing. Tragically, Clifford lost his life in a testing accident at Michigan International Speedway in August of 1992, while Davey died following a helicopter crash at Talladega Superspeedway in 1993.
Her grandson, Robbie, is a competitor at Kingsport Speedway in Kingsport, Tennessee, where he scored his first win earlier this year with Judy and Bobby in attendance.
