JD Gibbs has passed at age 49

Co-owner of the Joe Gibbs Racing NASCAR team has passed

J.D. Gibbs: February 21, 1969 – January 11, 2019

JD Gibbs is the son of Joe Gibbs. He began working at Joe Gibbs Racing in the 1990’s, when they had only six employees.

He was the former president of the NASCAR team. He held that position between 1997 and 2015.

Joe Gibbs Racing won four championship with JD Gibbs in that role.

In 2015, JD Gibbs began seeking treatment and really a diagnosis for his medical issues. Gibbs was suffering from a lack of brain function. Those included difficulty speaking and thought process.

In recent years, JD Gibbs has been absent from the race track.

Late last night, JD Gibbs passed away. He was 49 years old.

Denny Hamlin - 2018 Darlington Raceway throwback paint scheme
DARLINGTON, SC – AUGUST 31: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Throwback Toyota, drives during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Bojangles’ Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on August 31, 2018 in Darlington, South Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Joe Gibbs Racing reacts to the passing of JD Gibbs

The following are statement made from the NASCAR team and the drivers:

Joe Gibbs Racing: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joe Gibbs Racing Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, J.D. Gibbs, who passed away earlier tonight at the age of 49 from complications following a long battle with a degenerative neurological disease,” Joe Gibbs Racing issued in a brief statement.

Denny Hamlin: “His car. His number. His signature above my door. I will always be grateful for what His family did for mine and the opportunity he gave me 14 years ago. Now more than ever.”

Kyle Busch: “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to succeed and for guiding me along the way. We won together and we lost together, but you had a way to light up a room and bring peace to all. It was truly an honor to call you a friend. Love you JD.”

Daniel Suarez: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of JD Gibbs. He and the entire JGR organization were key to my career in NASCAR and will forever be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family at JGR during this very difficult time.”

Joe Gibbs, Kyle Busch and JD Gibbs in victory lane
Joe Gibbs, Kyle Busch and JD Gibbs in victory lane

NASCAR community saddened at the passing of JD Gibbs

Jimmie Johnson: “My heart goes out to the Gibbs family about JD’s passing this morning. He was always so kind and gracious to everyone.”

Marcus Smith: My heart goes out to the Gibbs family, and to the Joe Gibbs Racing family. When I think of JD I think of his inspiring faith & leadership, his smile, and his friendship. Love you and miss you JD. See you in Heaven brother!”

Steve O’Donnell: “If you want to know how to live life the right way and leave a legacy that will last forever-look no further than the example JD GIBBS set for all of us. A great leader, a man of faith, a family man and a friend. Rest In Peace JD.”

Bobby Labonte: “My heart was saddened when I heard the news last night about JD Gibbs passing away. I can’t emphasize enough about what a positive impact JD was on my life. Prayers to all of the Gibbs family.”

Jeff Burton: “JD Gibbs was a man of integrity and values. He will be greatly missed! My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Gibbs family.”

Rodney Childers: “Absolutely heartbroken to wake up to the news about JD Gibbs.. You couldn’t ask for a better person. I loved our days of racing late models up and Tri County. JD will be missed by so many… Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gibbs family and everyone.” “

John Hunter Nemechek: “My heart and prayers go out to the Gibbs family. JD always had a smile on his face walking around the garage. You will be missed.”

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Denny Hamlin talks JD Gibbs

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