As of this moment, Hendrick Motorsports is the most happening team in NASCAR. Holding 14 Cup Series championships and 314 race trophies, Rick Hendrick’s enterprise has dazzled for four decades. Jeff Gordon stands out in this regard, holding four of those Cup Series titles. However, behind HMS’ prominent spot in the world of motorsports lies the contribution of a remarkable individual. That man is Jon Edwards, who recently left behind heavy hearts in the NASCAR community and an evergreen legacy to be inspired by.

Who is Jon Edwards?

NASCAR has been built on the hard work and excellence of veterans who have dedicated their lives to the sport. Similarly, Jon Edwards has been such an asset to Hendrick Motorsports. For three decades, Edwards has been a prominent public relations expert. In his role, he has worked with the current vice chairman of HMS, Jeff Gordon, and also 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson. Recently, Edwards served the HMS team as its director of racing communications. But beyond his official designation, Edwards was a golden figure for multiple teams in NASCAR. That is why his untimely passing at the age of 53 shook the stock car racing series world recently, as heaps of condolences poured forth for his family and friends.

How did Jon Edwards foray into NASCAR and climb the ranks in Hendrick Motorsports?

Although little is known about Jon Edwards’ previous professional pursuits, his association with Rick Hendrick brought the veteran into the spotlight. He joined Performance PR Plus in 1994. That paved the way for Edwards’ involvement with DuPont Motorsports and Jeff Gordon’s world. Edwards worked as Gordon’s PR Representative for three decades. He worked through Gordon’s four championships (1995, 1997, 1998, and 2001) in the No. 24 Rainbow Warriors Chevrolet. After Gordon’s retirement from racing in 2016, Edwards worked with Kyle Larson. Edwards has also imparted his knowledge and wisdom to former HMS drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr and Jimmie Johnson, helping the latter’s Legacy Motor Club team.

Edwards was part of many memorable moments, like the Dale Earnhardt flag. After Jeff Gordon secured his 76th Cup Series victory and tied with The Intimidator in 2007 at Phoenix Raceway, he displayed a black flag with the No. 3 symbol written on it. A select group of officials were privy to that plan – including Jon Edwards. Then, earlier this year, Edwards volunteered to be a guest in a live stream seminar for young media members, according to NASCAR journalist Jeff Gluck. The latter said it was the one thing he received the most feedback on because of how inspirational Edwards was to others.

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NASCAR world mourns the demise of Jon Edwards

On 10th April 2025, Hendrick Motorsports rolled out a sad piece of news. Jon Edwards, a longtime friend who had a penchant for building strong and lasting relationships, passed away. The team did not provide a cause of death. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Jon Edwards, our longtime friend, teammate and director of racing communications,” HMS’ official statement read. “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.”

The people who worked closely with Jon Edwards were deeply shaken. Jeff Gordon’s words displayed the heavy impact that Edwards’ passing made on him. “I’m devastated by the loss of my dear friend, Jon. 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.”

Kyle Larson also wrote on X, “I will always be grateful for the memories we made and the laughs we shared along the way.” The loss has affected even pit crew members, who dearly respected Edwards. And that respect extends way beyond tracks and garages.

NASCAR media personalities also paid their heartfelt condolences to the late veteran. Fox Sports reporter Bob Pockrass said that Edwards “treated everyone like they were gold”. Jordan Bianchi, a reporter with The Athletic, said on X. “Jon was the gold standard. There was no one like him. I’m going miss our conversations.” Jeff Gluck also said he was “in complete disbelief” over the news, adding that Edwards was one of the “best dudes around.”

Jon Edwards left behind a golden legacy in NASCAR, whose impact branched beyond Hendrick Motorsports. We hail the bygone veteran who was a magnificent part of the sport’s history.