Parnelli Jones, the legendary race car driver and winner of the 1963 Indianapolis 500, passed away at the age of 90 after battling Parkinson’s disease. Known as the greatest driver of his era, Jones was admired for his aggressiveness and finesse behind the wheel. His remarkable talent and ability to win in any vehicle he drove set him apart from his contemporaries.
Born Rufus Parnell Jones in Texarkana, Arkansas, in 1933, he moved to Torrance, California, at a young age and never left. To compete without locals knowing his true identity and age, his friend came up with the name “Parnellie,” which was painted on his 1934 Ford jalopy. Eventually, the final “e” was dropped, and the name Parnelli Jones stuck.
Jones made history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1962 when he became the first driver to qualify at over 150 mph with a four-lap average of 150.370. He secured the pole position at the Indy 500 in 1962 and 1963 and was named co-rookie of the year in 1961 alongside Bobby Marshman. Over the course of his career, he competed in seven races at Indianapolis and led in five of them, totaling an impressive 492 laps led.
Aside from his success at the Indianapolis 500, Jones was renowned for his versatility as a driver. He ventured into other vehicles and achieved significant victories. Notably, he won the Baja 1000 twice and claimed a Trans-Am championship in a legendary 1970 Boss 302 Mustang painted orange for visibility. In addition, he secured four Cup Series victories in NASCAR and earned wins in USAC sprint cars and midgets.
Jones’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by his wife of nearly 57 years, Judy, as well as his sons PJ and Page, both of whom pursued professional racing careers. PJ Jones followed in his father’s footsteps by competing in the Indianapolis 500 in 2004 and 2006. Unfortunately, Page Jones had his driving career cut short due to serious injuries sustained in a 1994 crash.
Recognized for his contributions to the sport, Parnelli Jones was inducted into various Halls of Fame, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, the National Motorsports Hall of Fame, and both the National Sprint Car and National Midget Halls of Fame.
The passing of Parnelli Jones is a significant loss for the racing community. His skill, passion, and achievements will be remembered for generations to come.