Mary Scott, widow of NASCAR Hall of Fame member Wendell Scott, passes away

Mary Scott, widow of NASCAR Hall of Fame member Wendell Scott, has passed away. The matriarch of the Scott family, Mary was the driving force behind the scenes of NASCAR's first African-American winner. Mary Coles married Wendell Scott in 1943, four years before the future Hall of Famer would begin his racing career. 

NASCAR issued a statement Thursday afternoon offering their condolences to the Scott family: 

"NASCAR extends its thoughts and condolences to the many family members and friends of Mary Scott, widow of Wendell Scott and matriarch of the Scott family," the statment read. "Loved by all, she was a friendly and welcoming presence in the garage during her husband's competitive days in NASCAR. Her love and support provided Wendell a foundation for his many years of racing excellence, and helped guide his legend to NASCAR's pinnacle -- the NASCAR Hall of Fame."