The widow of 1963 Daytona 500 champion DeWayne “Tiny” Lund was found dead last night at her home in Waynesville, NC, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Wanda Lund-Early was married to Tiny Lund when he died in a savage crash during the 1975 Talladega 500, and her death was initially announced on the TinyLund.com. A statement on the site said, "We know Wanda is at the 'big track in the sky, laughing it up with her beloved Tiny once again."
An official ruling on the cause of Lund-Early's death will come from state Medical Examiner in the next few weeks. but officials say foul play is not suspected. The investigation remains open, however.
Tiny Lund was a five-time winner in NASCAR's premier series, and authored one of the sport's greatest legends after rescuing fellow driver Marvin Panch from a fiery sports car crash at Daytona International Speedway in 1963. Panch repaid the favor from his hospital bed, convincing the legendary Wood Brothers to replace him with Lund. Just 10 days later, The 6' 6" Lund won the Daytona 500 for the Woods.
He died after being t-boned in the driver's door on Lap 8 of the 1975 Talladega 500, at the age of 45.
The National Motorsports Press Association award-winning online home of Dave "The Godfather" Moody.
My sincere condolences to the Lund-Early family. May she rest in peace now.
ReplyDeleteMary
Killeen, TX
The Family of Wanda Lund Early wishes to express their sincere thanks for the outpouring of public support, warm wishes and prayers surrounding the death of their mother, sister, grandmother and aunt. One will never know what ultimately led Wanda to make the decision to end her life, but the family wishes to extend their gratitude to all who were touched by her life and the generosity of spirit she showed to so many. At this time of immeasurable grief, the family asks for privacy.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you, Chris, and our prayers and best wishes to the entire family.
ReplyDeleteThank you for passing the word Dave. Chris, my sincere condolences to you and your family. She is now at peace.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you Chris in this difficult time.
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