It has been a deeply emotional and grief-stricken month for the NASCAR community, following the passing of Jon Edwards, a well-known Hendrick Motorsports figure and Cup champion Kyle Larson’s closest ally, and Al Pearce, a respected media professional. Unfortunately, the American motorsport world has now suffered another heavy blow, this time on the medical front.
Jerry M. Petty, the man who safeguarded the racing field from serious injuries for over five decades, has sadly passed away. Following confirmation from Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, NASCAR released an official statement mourning the loss of the esteemed medical consultant.
NASCAR Mourns the Death of Jerry M. Petty on Social Media
CNSA revealed the sad news on social media on April 22, 2025. The statement read, “In Loving Memory: Dr. Jerry M. Petty (1935–2025). It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jerry Petty — a founding partner of CNSA, a national leader in neurosurgery, and a beloved mentor and friend.
“We are honored to stand on the foundation he built. Thank you, Dr. Petty. Your life’s work continues to guide and inspire us all,” CNSA wrote what was undeniably an emotional tribute to a celebrated man.
🕊 In Loving Memory: Dr. Jerry M. Petty (1935–2025)
It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jerry Petty — a founding partner of CNSA, a national leader in neurosurgery, and a beloved mentor and friend.
We are honored to stand on the foundation he built.… pic.twitter.com/KW08RlB7yA
— CarolinaNeurosurgery&Spine (@cnsa_insights) April 22, 2025
Dr. Petty attended medical school at the University of North Carolina, completed his first internship at Washington University School of Medicine, and later earned his fellowship in Neurological Surgery.
Moments after CNSA confirmed the passing of their treasured physician, NASCAR followed up with a statement of its own, highlighting Dr. Petty’s remarkable contributions to the entire racing community.
“For more than five decades, Dr. Jerry Petty was a constant and caring figure within the NASCAR garage, lending his immense medical knowledge and skills to treat competitors every single week,” the statement read.
“His personal touch made him a trusted figure, one who dedicated his life to caring for others. NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Petty.”
NASCAR statement: “For more than five decades, Dr. Jerry Petty was a constant and caring figure within the NASCAR garage, lending his immense medical knowledge and skills to treat competitors every single week. His personal touch made him a trusted figure, one who dedicated his… https://t.co/8gH4OWEAMb
— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) April 22, 2025
Dr. Petty was not just a respected figure in the NASCAR community. According to his profile on CNSA, he also played a significant role in the NFL and the NFL Players Association, serving as an Independent Neurological Consultant.
Overall, this has become yet another week of mourning in April. As the NASCAR community looks ahead to the upcoming weekend at Talladega, Fox Sports may once again pay tribute, this time to Dr. Petty, much like the heartfelt segment aired during the Bristol weekend.