On July 14, 2025, the NASCAR community lost a revered figure as Catherine Ann “Kate” Blaney, grandmother of NASCAR Cup driver Ryan Blaney, passed away at 87 in Hospice House, Poland, Ohio. Known not only for her family ties but also for her extensive contributions to education, business, and community service, Kate Blaney’s legacy spans much more than racing. Her passing prompted an outpouring of support and tributes from fans and families throughout NASCAR, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the sport’s community.
The Blaney family has been deeply woven into NASCAR’s history, with a heritage rooted in dirt tracks and the Cup Series. Kate was a dedicated teacher and graduate of Kent State’s class of 1960. In addition to co-owning Blaney Lumber and contributing to the operations at Sharon Speedway, she was an active organist and bell choir member at Hartford Methodist Church. Her presence at race weekends, cheering from the infield alongside her late husband Lewis and sons David and Dale, inspired Ryan Blaney’s own passion for the sport. While she often cheered quietly from the sidelines, her influence extended well beyond the track.
“We will always remember Kate as the kind, beautiful, and endlessly giving woman that she was. A soul full of life, strength, and grace. Rest easy, dear Kate. We love you always. #rbff”
— Ryan Blaney Family Foundation
Kate Blaney’s Impact Through Education, Business, and Charity
Kate Blaney’s impact was multifaceted. As an educator, she nurtured countless students during her career. After retiring from teaching, she and her husband Lewis grew their family lumber business, while managing Sharon Speedway, a significant local short track. Kate demonstrated remarkable resilience, especially following Lewis’s death in 2009. She continued to support the family’s racing legacy and cared for five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Her charitable efforts are among her most enduring contributions. She initiated the Lou Blaney Memorial event at Sharon Speedway to raise Alzheimer’s disease awareness, named in honor of her father-in-law Lou Blaney, who succumbed to the illness. The memorial has grown into a personal mission for the Blaney family. In recognition of her leadership, she was honored at the 2011 Alzheimer’s Association Gala, highlighting her dedication to the cause.
Inspired by Kate’s work, Ryan Blaney established the Ryan Blaney Foundation in 2018. The foundation quickly gained momentum, raising a record $650,000 at its first auction event, where a custom 1974 Ford Bronco was sold to benefit Alzheimer’s programs. Since then, the foundation has surpassed $1 million, contributing significantly to Alzheimer’s Association initiatives. This philanthropic achievement stands as a testament to Kate’s lasting influence, equal in significance to racing victories or championships.
Recent Reverberations: The NASCAR Community Faces Another Loss
The Blaney family’s sorrow comes amid a period of mourning within NASCAR following the earlier passing of Travis Carter on June 10, 2025. Carter, a legendary crew chief and team owner, was 75 years old when he died. He made a substantial mark on the sport, most notably guiding Benny Parsons to two Cup Championships in 1973 and 1978, as well as winning the Daytona 500 in 1975. After transitioning to team ownership with Torquespeed Carter, founded in 2003, Carter’s influence extended beyond the pit box.
His death elicited heartfelt reflections from notable NASCAR figures. Former driver Kenny Wallace recalled Carter’s calm demeanor and dedication behind the scenes.
“Travis Carter has passed away … I will always remember Travis changing tires for Junior Johnson’s cars in a VERY calm demeanor. … TRAVIS WAS A LEGEND,”
— Kenny Wallace
Brian Keselowski, another NASCAR personality, also shared his sentiments.
“Just heard about Travis Carter passing away… He was so happy for us when we made Daytona in 2011,”
— Brian Keselowski
Community Unity and Enduring Legacies Amid Grief
The passing of Kate Blaney alongside the recent loss of Travis Carter demonstrates the fragility of life within the NASCAR family but also highlights the strength and solidarity within this community. Whether mourning a beloved grandmother whose quiet kindness shaped a racing dynasty or honoring a Hall of Fame crew chief whose technical expertise led to championships, NASCAR fans and participants find comfort in collective memories and shared appreciation.
Kate Blaney’s legacy, particularly through charitable work and her role in nurturing future generations, stresses an approach to greatness that extends beyond trophies and titles. Her ability to inspire charitable movements and uphold family traditions forever bonds her name to the sport’s broader history. Meanwhile, the memory of Travis Carter’s calm leadership and pioneering spirit remains a cornerstone for many within the racing world.
As NASCAR moves forward, it carries the lessons and love left by these figures, affirming that racing is as much about community and resilience as it is about competition and speed. The Ryan Blaney family NASCAR tribute continues to unite fans and drivers alike in a celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit of motorsport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won a championship?
A. Blaney has claimed 14 wins, starting with Pocono Raceway in 2017 and most recently at Nashville Superspeedway in June 2025. He secured his first Cup title in 2023 after finishing second at Phoenix Raceway.
