Many great warriors have competed in motorsports, but none have responded with such unparalleled courage in the face of tragedy and heartbreak as Bobby Allison.

It’s surprising to take stock of your losses. The NASCAR Hall of Famer suffered the sudden deaths of his two sons, Clifford (1992) and Davey (1993), in separate racing and aviation accidents. Then, the loss of “Alabama Gang” member Neil Bonnett (1994) in a practice accident at Daytona International Speedway. He then lost the love of his life, Judy (2015), following what should have been a relatively simple medical procedure.

The rivalries in his Cup career were legendary, and he certainly sharpened his steel, including fierce duels in the mudroom and heated debates with future Hall of Famers Curtis Turner, Richard Petty, Junior Johnson and Darrell Waltrip.

He didn’t back down from anyone.

Allison’s iron will and pursuit of perfection led to conflict, which resulted in him driving for more than 20 different Cup car owners. His legend grew day by day.

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In 1974, Bobby suffered a broken back in a crash at Riverside during the Saturday race of the IROC Series. Nevertheless, the next day he continued on his way with temporary support; Beating the biggest names in motorsport including Foyt, Unser, Petty, Pearson, Yarborough and Formula 1 world champions Jody Scheckter and Emerson Fittipaldi.

His fight with Cale Yarborough alongside his brother Donnie at the 1979 Daytona 500 created an unforgettable moment that is still considered one of the most important events in NASCAR history.

Allison was the first racer to race anywhere, any day of the week. Local short tracks would promote his special appearances, where he shook hands, signed autographs and raced against local heroes at hundreds of venues, building a nationwide following as one of the sport’s most popular drivers. He was famous for making the rails “buzz” on his private plane’s arrivals and departures, making fans imagine where he would go next.

He had accidents on the track that changed the course of NASCAR history. His crash into the fences at Talladega in 1987 resulted in Daytona and Talladega Superspeedway using engine restrictor plates to slow the cars. He had horrific crashes in Elko, Minnesota, and Rockingham and barely slowed down.

After going 1-2 for father-son Davey in the 1988 Daytona 500, Bobby was involved in a career-ending and nearly life-ending crash at Pocono in June, resulting in a serious head injury. Recovering from this injury, Bobby focused on continuing his career as a car owner and supporting the racing careers of Clifford and Davey.

After retiring as a car owner, Bobby made numerous appearances at fan conventions, festivals and special events. Seated with his brother and fellow NASCAR Hall of Famers Donnie Allison and Red Farmer, they were always among the most famous legends in the autograph row and drew the longest lines.

Bobby suffered many health problems in his final years, but always had the support of his daughters, Bonnie and Carrie, and his many lifelong friends who stopped by with a strawberry milkshake from Chick-fil-A.

Some contestants are judged by their numbers, and he doesn’t lose anything in that regard; Allison’s 85 career wins rank fourth on the all-time Cup Series wins list. Others are judged on their contributions as innovators, and Bobby was one of the best in developing power steering and spotter radio communications. Some can be judged by their fan appeal and popularity, and Bobby’s fan base is once again legendary.

He did it all with perseverance, determination and courage.

Bobby first came to my attention when I was 14 and attended the 1966 Old Dominion 500 at Martinsville. Bobby and Fred Lorenzen competed in a classic battle. Bobby led 218 laps in Donald Brackins’ small Chevelle, while Lorenzen led 172 laps in his factory-backed Holman Moody Ford. While final engine problems dropped Bobby to third, Lorenzen went on to win.

I have followed Bobby’s career closely since that day in Martinsville. When I started working on the media side of the sport 42 years ago, I never imagined I would get to know Bobby this well. I especially enjoyed visiting Bobby and Judy at their home, where Judy had gluten-free cookies waiting for me when I arrived. The stories we shared will always be with me.

One of my most cherished accomplishments is my cameo role in NASCAR honoring his 85th career victory at Bowman Gray Stadium in 1971.

Despite all the trials and tribulations, Bobby kept his faith, cherished the love of his family, and was supported by thousands of friends and fans.

Rest well my friend and enjoy your family reunion.

Ken Martin, director of historical content, has worked exclusively for NASCAR since 2008 but has been involved with the sport since 1982. He worked in the broadcast booth for hundreds of races, tallying “points as he ran” for the historic 1992. finale at Atlanta Motor Speedway.