Martin Truex Jr. concluded his full-time NASCAR career last year, wrapping up with a 10th-place finish in the final standings. His retirement had been a consideration for some time, but 2023 proved particularly challenging due to the passing of Sherry Pollex, his longtime partner and a key figure behind the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation. This loss profoundly impacted both Truex Jr. and the wider NASCAR community.
A Two-Decade Bond Rooted in Devotion and Shared Purpose
Truex Jr. and Sherry Pollex first met in 2005, forming a close relationship that lasted nearly 20 years. Though they decided to end their romantic partnership earlier in 2023, their connection remained strong, sustained by mutual respect and a commitment to giving back. Pollex’s influence extended deep into the racing world, not only as Truex Jr.’s confidante but also through her family’s involvement in NASCAR.
Sherry Pollex’s Family Ties and Impact on NASCAR
Sherry Pollex’s father, Greg Pollex, once owned PPC Racing, the team Jeff Green drove to victory in 2000. Her understanding of the sport was thus deeply ingrained, making her an integral figure in Truex Jr.’s life and the broader racing scene. After her death, Martin Truex Jr. expressed heartfelt sentiments about her fearless battle with ovarian cancer and her dedication to helping others affected by the disease.
Tributes Highlighting Pollex’s Courage and Compassion
Truex Jr. wrote,
From the very minute of her diagnosis, Sherry was determined to not only fight ovarian cancer with everything she had but also make a difference in the lives of others battling this terrible disease. Sherry’s passion for making a difference in the lives of others was inspiring to everyone.
He continued,
Through her tireless charity work for so many years, her legacy will live well beyond our lifetimes and continue to help countless families who are battling ovarian and childhood cancer. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to her entire family, who have shown incredible strength and resilience throughout her battle.
The NASCAR Community’s Remembrance and Fan Reactions
Sherry Pollex’s passing resonates strongly within NASCAR, as fans, drivers, and insiders recall her impact beyond the track. Veteran reporter Jeff Gluck honored her memory by resharing audio of Pollex’s own words, emphasizing how she remains a daily presence in the NASCAR community. He noted,
It’s been two years since Sherry Pollex passed away. She was an amazing person and is remembered daily in the NASCAR community. Re-sharing this audio with some of her own words,
Fans responded with heartfelt messages reflecting on her kindness and enduring influence, such as,
Remembering Sherry Pollex today 5/10/1979 – 9/17/2023 #RIP #SherryStrong ,
Others described her as a jewel and a true NASCAR legend, while many expressed how deeply her loss continues to be felt.
Lasting Significance of Pollex’s Role in Truex Jr.’s Life and NASCAR
Though Martin Truex Jr. has chosen to keep his personal feelings private, his fans recognize the magnitude of his loss and continue to support him. Sherry Pollex’s legacy endures not only through the foundation they built together but also through the countless lives touched by her charitable work and genuine spirit. Her story remains an inspiring chapter in the ongoing narrative of the Martin Truex Jr legacy within NASCAR.
Statement from Martin Truex Jr. on
the death of his former partner, Sherry Pollex: pic.twitter.com/lwCMpLdIJN— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 17, 2023
It's been two years since Sherry Pollex passed away. She was an amazing person and is remembered daily in the NASCAR community. Re-sharing this audio with some of her own words. https://t.co/gSA7WwmSqo
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) September 17, 2025
