Ray Fox Dies At Age 98

Fox (L) with David Pearson 

Former NASCAR team owner, engine builder and master mechanic Ray Fox died at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach, Fla. Sunday at age 98, after a lengthy battle with COPD.

Fox fielded winning entries for NASCAR Hall of Famers Junior Johnson, David Pearson and Buck Baker, and won 14 times as a car owner at NASCAR’s highest level. His biggest win came in the 1960 Daytona 500, with Johnson at the wheel.

He remained active as a NASCAR engine inspector into his 80s and has been nominated for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III commented on his passing today, saying, “We are saddened by the news. Ray was a legendary wrench man who led Junior Johnson to victory in the 1960 Daytona 500 and also called Daytona Beach home. Since his retirement, he was a frequent visitor at the track and his presence will be missed. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the Fox family.”