Judy Allison, wife of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison, dies

Judy Allison, who experienced both triumph and tragedy as wife of NASCAR Hall of Fame driver Bobby Allison, died Friday at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville, N.C., following complications from surgery, her family confirmed in a statement.

Allison was 74.

“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,” a statement from the family said.

“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.”

Bobby Allison won 84 races in NASCAR’s premier Cup series and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the Class of 2011.

Judy and Bobby’s sons, Davey and Clifford, each followed in their father’s footsteps and embarked on NASCAR careers of their own.

Clifford passed away in 1992 in an accident during practice at Michigan International Speedway. Davey, who won 19 Cup races including the 1992 Daytona 500, died in 1993 in a helicopter accident at Talladega Superspeedway.

NASCAR Statement

“NASCAR extends its condolences to the friends and family of Judy Allison, the wife of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison. 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.”