Patrica Petty, Wife of Maurice & Sister-in-Law to Richard, Passes

One of NASCAR’s first families, the Petty’s, are dealing with another loss.

Patricia Petty, wife of NASCAR Hall of Fame member Maurice Petty (brother of Richard), passed away Sunday. Her death comes less than six weeks after the loss of Lynda Petty, wife of Richard Petty.

Richard petty congratulates his brother Maurice on his NASCAR Hall of Fame induction (photo – Streeter Lecka/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Richard Petty confirmed Patricia Petty’s death in issuing a statement through Richard Petty Motorsports.

“We all love Patricia. She was another cornerstone in the Petty family and was always there for Maurice and allowed us to do what we loved to do. She was just another special part of the family. We’ll miss her and give our love and support to Maurice and his family at this time.”

Two of Maurice and Patricia’s sons, Timmy and Mark, work in NASCAR.

Brian France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO, offered sympathies.

“NASCAR offers its deepest condolences to Maurice Petty and the entire Petty family on the loss of Maurice’s wife, Patricia Petty,” said France. “Maurice’s decades of excellence in our sport deservedly earned him a place in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Patricia’s loving support was integral to his legendary career. She will be dearly missed.”

NASCAR Hall of Fame executive director Winston Kelley also offered a brief statement on the passing of Patricia Petty.

“On behalf of the entire NASCAR Hall of Fame team, I would like to offer our most sincere condolences to Maurice and the entire Petty family on the passing of Patricia Petty. Like many racing wives, Patricia was the foundation and rock of the family. She always had a big smile and warm welcome for those she met and was a huge part of the NASCAR industry and Maurice’s success. Sitting beside her the day that Maurice was selected for the 2014 Class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame last May and watching her enjoy all the festivities of Maurice’s induction this past January will always be some of my most special memories. Patricia, or Mama Trish as she was affectionately known, will be deeply missed, but her memory and impact on so many will live on forever. ”