Full Breakdown
Gary Myers, Four-Generation NASCAR Patriarch Dies at 76
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Death of a Racing Legend
Gary Myers, a former NASCAR driver and the patriarch of a four-generation racing family, died on September 10 at age 76 after an extended period of ill health. The family announced his passing on social media; no cause of death was disclosed.
Background & Context
Born on March 4, 1950 in Walnut Cove, North Carolina, Myers grew up in a family deeply rooted in stock-car racing. His father, Billy Myers, and uncle, Bobby Myers, were early competitors at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, a venue that would define the family’s legacy. Both Billy and Bobby died in racing accidents in the late 1950s (Billy in 1958, Bobby in 1957).
Gary entered the NASCAR Winston Cup Series in 1974 and competed in 46 Cup races through 1978, achieving a best finish of fourth place at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1976. He also raced in the Grand National East Series, the Featherlite Modified Tour, and the SMART Modified Tour, where he captured the 1996 championship.
His sons, Burt and Jason Myers, continued the family tradition, and the lineage extended to a fourth generation when grandson Slate Myers won his first Modified race at Bowman Gray in May 2026.
Data & Statistics
- 46 NASCAR Cup Series starts (1974-1978)
- 38 wins at Bowman Gray Stadium in Modified competition
- 1996 SMART Modified Tour champion (15 wins that season)
- Combined family total of more than 180 wins at Bowman Gray (Gary, Burt, and Jason)
Official Statements & Responses
- SMART Modified Tour issued a statement: “We lost one of our heroes – Gary Myers.”
- Burt Myers announced the death on Facebook, describing his father as a hero and expressing gratitude for the time they shared.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Last night I lost my hero,” — Burt Myers, won his first Modified race at Bowman Gray in May 2026
- “Last night I lost my hero. He fought so hard but was so tired. My daddy is in Heaven and can finally do the things he wanted to do the last several years. Thank God for the times we had. He taught me everything I know. Selfishly I want him here but I know he is much better off now. I miss him so much. I love you Daddy!” — Burt Myers, won his first Modified race at Bowman Gray in May 2026
- “We lost one of our heroes – Gary Myers,” — SMART Modified Tour, where he won the championship in 1996
These quotes capture the personal grief expressed by Burt Myers and the industry’s recognition of Gary Myers’ impact on Modified racing.