A prominent doctor who cared for countless NASCAR drivers and NFL players died recently, his practice confirmed.
Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine (CNSA) announced Tuesday that Dr. Jerry Petty — whose medical career spanned decades in the Queen City — passed away.
Petty was a founding partner of CNSA, and worked with countless athletes over his 50-plus years of practice.
“We are honored to stand on the foundation he built,” CNSA wrote on social media. “Thank you, Dr. Petty. Your life’s work continues to guide and inspire us all.”
The Southern Neurosurgical Society (SNS) said Petty was the first neurosurgical consultant for the Carolina Panthers, starting in the team’s inaugural 1995 season. Decades before, he began working as the principal medical consultant for NASCAR in the 1970s.
NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. had multiple concussions during his racing career and examined by Petty. On Tuesday evening, he paid tribute to the late doctor on social media.
“Dr. Petty helped so many patients in his career, but I will remember him for being a friend to the NASCAR industry and helping so many drivers through all sorts of injuries,” Earnhardt wrote. “Above all that, he was a kind, amazing person. Always cracking a joke and keeping spirits high. He left a very positive impression on this world and will be missed.”
Under CNSA’s post that announced Petty’s passing, one man said that the veteran doctor’s work “changed [his] life.”
A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Petty grew up in Gastonia and would have turned 90 years old in August.
CNSA did not say how Dr. Petty died.
We are honored to stand on the foundation he built,” CNSA wrote on social media. “Thank you, Dr. Petty. Your life’s work continues to guide and inspire us all.”