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Taylorsville, NC (WNN)— Rex White, a NASCAR racer who won the 1960 NASCAR Grand National Series championship and made his mark in the sport's history with 28 career wins, has died. He was 95.
White passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025. His passing closes a chapter for one of NASCAR's early greats, a time shaped by pure skill and clever engineering. His death was confirmed by NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Rex White was born on August 17, 1929, in Taylorsville, North Carolina, and lived in the same home all of his life. He faced physical challenges from an early age; he dealt with polio, leaving his right leg withered, which contributed to his tiny stature of just 5 feet 4 inches and 135 pounds. He started his racing journey on local dirt tracks before he made his NASCAR Grand National debut in 1956. He soon proved himself a tough rival known for his careful car prep and a driving style that was smooth yet bold. This approach allowed him to often win against other NASCAR legends such as Richard Petty, David Pearson, and Junior Johnson. He got his first career win in 1958 at Champion Speedway in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He led the last five laps in that race, which became well-known. That year, he achieved an impressive 13 top-five finishes in 22 starts.
White's career hit its peak in 1960. He secured the Grand National Series title with six victories with his famous #4 Chevrolet and landed in the top 10 in 35 out of 40 races. This championship stood out as an incredible achievement during a time when many drivers managed their teams normally with few resources. Success in that era depended on skill and clever tactics. Across his career of 233 starts, he earned 28 victories, claimed 36 poles, and achieved 110 top-5s and 163 top-10s. His 70% top-10 record ranks among the best in NASCAR history.
Photo courtesy of NASCAR Media
White was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2015, earning recognition for his major role in the sport. At the ceremony, Brian France, the NASCAR Chairman and CEO at the time, spoke about White's "toughness" and mentioned that he "competed against the best competitors the sport had to offer."
In an interview in 2023 with WNN's Rusty Wise, White talked about staying close to racing even after stepping away. When asked how racing shaped his life, he said, " I spent a lot of time watching it on television, and I enjoy it." He kept his outlook on current racing sharp and often spoke about his experienced take on the sport.
White shared how his life changed after racing, saying, "I got in the trucking business." This move reflected how he explored opportunities outside the world of racing. He also owned an automobile dealership in Atlanta. When asked about his age during the interview, he replied, "I'm 92." He wrapped things up with a warm note to his supporters: "I'm proud of all of them."
Rex White stepped away from full-time racing after the 1964 season. He said financial struggles and a lack of sponsorship after six races led to the decision. While his career may seem short by some standards, his steady victories and championship win secured him a place as one of NASCAR's legends. His strong drive and great skill motivate racers and fans even today. He returned to Taylorsville often to reflect on his roots.
Rex White's death leaves a void in the NASCAR world. His journey, from a boy on a farm in Taylorsville to a winning champion, still inspires people today. He showed what it meant to push past obstacles and defined the spirit of early stock car racing.
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France called him "a true pioneer" who played a key role in building the sport during its early years. White stands as a lasting example of grit and hometown pride to the people of Taylorsville and others. His legacy in North Carolina racing will impact future racing generations for years to come.
No funeral arrangements have been made at this time.
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