R.I.P.: NASCAR Legend, Broadcaster Buddy Baker

Buddy Baker

NASCAR legend Elzie Wylie "Buddy" Baker Jr. has passed away after a battle with cancer.

Just after 6 a.m. Monday, Sirius XM NASCAR tweeted, "With overwhelming sadness, we regrettably announce the passing of our friend and colleague, Buddy Baker. #GentleGiant."

Baker, known as the “Gentle Giant” won 19 times in NASCAR's highest series, including wins in the Daytona 500 and Southern 500 in Darlington, and back-to-back World 600's at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1972-73.

“Many of today’s fans may know Buddy Baker as one of the greatest storytellers in the sport’s history, a unique skill that endeared him to millions,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France. “But those who witnessed his racing talent recognized Buddy as a fast and fierce competitor, setting speed records and winning on NASCAR’s biggest stages. It is that dual role that made Buddy an absolute treasure who will be missed dearly.”

Baker was known by another nickname as well, "Leadfoot" which was more apropos due to the blistering speeds he often achieved during his 33-year career.

He became the first driver to eclipse the 200-mph mark on a closed course while testing at Talladega Superspeedway.

After retiring in 1992, Baker made a successful transition to the television booth as a commentator for The Nashville Network and CBS, and later as a radio co-host on Late Shift and Tradin’ Paint for SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

The 74-year-old legend, who was born in Florence, South Carolina, announced last month that he had inoperable lung cancer and was leaving his role as a co-host on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.