NASCAR: Family matriarch Betty Jane France dies

Above: Betty Jane France, right, with son Brian and daugther Lesa France Kennedy, in 2013.

Betty Jane France, a noted philanthropist, community leader and mother of NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France and International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa France Kennedy, died on Monday.

France, who was the widow of the late NASCAR chairman and CEO William C. France, championed children's health causes. She helped to establish the "Speediatrics" children's care unit at Halifax Health in Daytona Beach and at Homestead Hospital in Homestead, Florida. She also served as vice president and assistant treasurer of NASCAR and the chairwoman emeritus of the NASCAR Foundation. The Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award Presented by Nationwide, recognizing outstanding charitable and volunteer efforts of NASCAR fans, was created in her honor in 2011.

"Last night, the NASCAR family lost a mother, a grandmother, a friend and the light that guided the sport's charitable arm," Brian France said in a statement. "My mother taught us incredible values, that of love, patience, compassion and joy. She embraced life every day, and nothing fueled her passion more than children. Her unmatched efforts in building The NASCAR Foundation improved the lives of millions of children throughout this country. And because of that, her legacy will live forever.

"My father leaned on my mother throughout his life, relying on her wisdom and calming demeanor to help grow the sport of NASCAR. She was there, every step of the way. When we lost my father, her positive presence remained, as she used her immense skill to grow NASCAR's heart and soul, The NASCAR Foundation.

"Our family thanks you for all of your thoughts, prayers and well wishes. My mother was a special woman, and an impressive person, and she will be dearly missed."

France's daughter Lesa wrote in a statement. that her mother was an inspiration.

"She played a significant role in NASCAR’s history, leading the charge to elevate the experience of our sport for the fans who love it, and her philanthropic efforts will forever remain a part of our sport," France Kennedy said. "In her hometown of Daytona Beach, she served as a community leader touching countless lives with her charitable efforts. Beyond her greatest community service, her starring role was that of mother to my brother Brian and me. She was an incredible role model, cherished friend, and someone who demonstrated limitless possibilities that helped so many people pursue their dreams."

Funeral arrangements are pending.