Betty Rutherford, the wife of three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Johnny Rutherford, died on Sunday

The Rutherfords had been married since 1963, when they met at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Betty was serving as a nurse at the track during the month of May while Johnny was a rookie at the Speedway. The two were married a couple months later. Betty went on to play a significant role in charity work related to Indy car racing.

The Rutherford family at Indy following Johnny’s third Indy 500 win in 1980.

“We’re all very saddened about the passing of Betty Rutherford,” Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles said in a statement. “From the minute she and Johnny met at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1963 when he was an Indy 500 rookie and she was a student nurse in the infield medical center, Betty has been a beloved member of the racing community. Her mutual devotion for Johnny, his legendary racing career and their beautiful family was evident from the beginning and throughout their 55-year marriage, but she also worked tirelessly for decades as a driving force behind many charitable organizations and efforts in the IndyCar community, especially CARA Charities.

“Betty’s engaging smile and personality will be remembered by everyone, as she was a wonderful person who radiated class and warmth to all. We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Johnny, their family and friends.”

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 24, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Greenwood Chapel, 3100 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, Texas, 76107. The funeral service will be Friday, January 25 at 1:30 p.m. at Greenwood Chapel.