Renowned car racing legend, Leroy Felty of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, has died. On Sunday, April 30, 2023, a message was posted on Facebook announcing his death. It reads as follows:
“The Eastern Museum of Motor Racing wants to send its heartfelt sympathies to Leory and Betty Felty’s family and friends.”
His death’s circumstances are unknown; they may be revealed later. There was no information given about the funeral arrangements.
Leroy Ray Felty was born on September 22, 1928, to parents John and Eva Kreiser Felty in Outwood, close to Pine Grove. Early on, he discovered a passion for racing cars and soon rose to prominence as one of the area’s most successful drivers.
Leroy Felty, then 21 years old, started his racing career at the Hilltop Speedway in Myerstown, Pennsylvania, in 1949.
In 1953, during the first race ever held at Lincoln, Felty was trailing Walt Regan with one lap remaining when he went sailing over the wall and was presented with the “Fence Buster” trophy, the first trophy ever presented at Lincoln.
He made his debut at Port Royal Speedway this year, where he would finish his career with 39 victories.
He immediately made a name for himself as a skilled driver, and fans and other competitors began noticing his prowess on the track.
He crossed over the weekends to MD, DE, NJ, NY, etc., while driving a race vehicle for United Racing in 1971. He captured titles in 1971 and 1973.
Despite his success on the track, Felty was respected for his modesty and grounded demeanour. His fellow racers renowned him for his professionalism and sportsmanship, and he always took the time to communicate with his supporters.
Tributes:
Port Royal Speedway Trackside Media:
We are sending our thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of the 1968 track champion and 39-time winner at the Speedway, Leroy Felty. He currently sits 11th on the all-time win list!
Felty is pictured below in various cars at the Speedway. This includes his final official visit to the Speedway two years ago as part of our Living Legend Dream Race festivities. Also pictured is Leroy in a driver’s suit before his “final laps” in 2018 as he took to the track at 90 years old in an exhibition!
May he and his wife Betty, who also passed away, Rest in Peace! Thanks for the memories!
Amelia Warner
Amelia Warner writes all the Latest Articles. She mostly covers Entertainment topics, but at times loves to write about movie reviews as well.
