Jon Edwards, beloved Hendrick Motorsports Director of Communications, dies

Hendrick Motorsports announced this evening that Jon Edwards, Director of Communications for the team, has died. Edwards worked with Jeff Gordon for years as a PR rep and most recently worked alongside Kyle Larson in a similar role.

There are all kinds of people behind the scenes who make the NASCAR world go around. Jon Edwards was one of those people.

Today, Hendrick Motorsports announced the news and released a statement on the matter. A terrible loss for Hendrick and the NASCAR community.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Jon Edwards, our longtime friend, teammate and director of racing communications,” the Hendrick statement reads. “Jon was a consummate professional whose remarkable gift for building strong and lasting relationships made him a respected figure in our sport.

“His impact on Hendrick Motorsports, the NASCAR community and countless individuals cannot be overstated. Above all, Jon was a kind and thoughtful person who carried a genuine passion for our industry, our organization and his many teammates and friends.

“Our thoughts are with Jon’s family and all who are grieving this tremendous loss. He will be deeply missed.”

Jeff Gordon also posted a statement online. Gordon worked with Edwards for many years as a driver and as Vice Chairman at Hendrick Motorsports.

“I’m devastated by the loss of my dear friend, Jon,” Gordon wrote. “For almost three decades, we were side by side through every high and low, every celebration, and every challenge. He was one of the most loyal, hardworking and selfless people I’ve ever known, and I will be forever grateful for his immeasurable impact on my life and my career. My heart is with Jon’s family and everyone who loved him. He was truly one of a kind.”

Jon Edwards spent 31 years at Hendrick Motorsports

Recently, NASCAR traveled to Darlington Raceway for the Goodyear 400. Before that race weekend, Jon Edwards spent a little time to reflect on his X/Twitter page. Always excited about the next race and the next thing in the sport, Edwards shared that this year’s Darlington race was a little more special.

It was 31 years ago at Darlington when Edwards first worked for Jeff Gordon. 1994. The perfect time to get in on the No. 24 team in the Cup Series.

“Trek to Darlington Raceway yesterday had me thinking. Today marks the 31st anniversary of my first race working with the No. 24 team and [Jeff Gordon] which occurred at Darlington.”

If it was the first Darlington race of the season, then it was not a great time to be on the 24 team. P31 and a DNF at that race in 1994. Gordon only won two races in that season, his sophomore year in the Cup Series, and finished 8th in the standings. The next year, he won his first championship. Two years after that, back-to-back titles.

Of course, that 1998 season was truly special. 13 wins and a stretch of 17 races with top-five finishes. Gordon finished the season with 20 straight top-10 finishes.

Jon Edwards will be missed by so many in the NASCAR industry and especially the garage. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this time.