NASCAR Pit Crew Member, Wife Killed While Celebrating Honeymoon

A NASCAR pit crew member and his wife tragically lost their lives while celebrating their honeymoon. Hendrick Motorsports confirmed that William "Rowdy" Harrell and his wife Blakley died in an automobile accident in Florida Tuesday night (November 24), just three days after getting married.

According to WCNC, Harrell has been a member of the pit crew for Hendrick Motorsports for eight seasons, and most recently worked on the NASCAR Cup Series team for Number 88 Alex Bowman. After news of his death broke, Bowman shared his thoughts on Harrell's untimely passing.

"Rowdy was everything that made the 88 team, the 88 team," Bowman posted on Twitter Wednesday (November 25). "The biggest personality and the best person. He was the happiest person you'd ever meet, and that was only reenforced by his wife Blakley."

He continued, "Rip to an absolute legend. You'll be missed every single day brother."

"They were such positive, giving and passionate people who could not have been a more perfect match," said Greg Ives, Harrell's crew chief for six seasons. "Rowdy had an energetic and infectious personality. He was the heart and soul of our team and always kept us motivated, no matter the circumstance."

Ives said the entire team was devastated to lose one of their own, especially someone like Harrell.

"Rowdy shared his love with the people around him and was loved in return," said Ives. "Although he will be greatly missed, his memory will continue to inspire us always."

Memorial arrangements have not been announced.

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