Juanita “Lightnin” Epton, a long-time employee of the Daytona International Speedway, passed away at the age of 103. She was known for working at every Daytona 500 since the first race in 1959. Epton, alongside her husband Joe, was an integral part of the NASCAR community and was involved in various roles, from ticket sales to scoring races. She brought a passion for the track to her work every day, and her presence was beloved by staff, fans, and drivers.
Epton’s career with NASCAR spanned all seven generations of Cup Series stock cars and included more than 150 points-paying races at the Daytona International Speedway. She was hired by NASCAR founder Bill France’s grandfather in 1958, a year before the inaugural race, while the track was still under construction. Her husband, Joe, also played a significant role in the sport as the chief of timing and scoring from 1947 to 1985. Epton earned her nickname “Lightnin” from her husband due to her mischievous nature.
Despite being a crucial figure in the NASCAR community, Epton shockingly did not watch a Daytona 500 race until 2007, after nearly 50 years of working at the Speedway. She was known for her quick wit and ability to handle difficult situations, such as dealing with racist customers who demanded tickets to a non-existent all-whites section at the Speedway. Epton would respond by questioning the customers about their ethnicity, highlighting the absurdity of their request.
In 2022, Daytona International Speedway honored Epton, its longest-serving employee, by dedicating the Lightnin’ Epton Ticket Office in her honor. At the dedication ceremony, Epton expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating that the Speedway and its people meant a great deal to her. She described the experience of having her name become a part of the Speedway as surreal and emotional. Epton’s legacy as a trailblazer in the NASCAR community and her dedication to the sport will be remembered by all who knew her.
NASCAR CEO Jim France paid tribute to Epton, acknowledging her long-standing commitment to the Daytona 500 and the sport of NASCAR. Epton and her husband were instrumental in supporting Bill and Anne France, NASCAR’s founders, from the early days of the organization. Their contributions, from scoring races to selling tickets, were crucial to the success of NASCAR and the Daytona 500. Epton’s impact on the community was evident through the outpouring of love and support from staff, fans, and drivers following her passing.
Throughout her time working in NASCAR, Epton witnessed various historical events, including the civil rights movement. Her quick thinking and ability to navigate challenging situations, such as standing up to racism, showcased her strength of character and determination. Epton’s career at the Daytona International Speedway was marked by a deep-rooted passion for the track and a dedication to serving the fans and participants of NASCAR. Her legacy as a pioneer in the sport will continue to inspire future generations of NASCAR fans and employees.
