Steve Byrnes, Fox Sports NASCAR announcer, lost a lengthy battle with cancer on Tuesday at the age of 56.
His family issued a statement via Fox Sports.
“Mr. Steven Patrick Byrnes, age 56, of Fort Mill, S.C., went to be with the Lord on April 21, 2015,” the statement read. “Steve enjoyed a successful and highly respected television broadcasting career for 30 years. He joined the FOX Sports family in 2001, hosting and reporting for multiple NASCAR programs and serving as a pit road reporter for NASCAR on FOX’s broadcast of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races from 2001-2014.”
The Fox network released a statement about Steve Byrnes on Tuesday to Us Weekly.
.@HollywoodJeff remembers @SteveByrnes12 as one who went extra mile to help others: http://t.co/0OBqV8Dv3q #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/w9X27qa5zh
— FOX SPORTS: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) April 22, 2015
“A symbol of strength, compassion and dignity, Steve, 56, was a source of inspiration to everyone, sharing his fight in a very courageous and public way. Honored just days ago at Bristol Motor Speedway with the FOOD CITY 500 IN SUPPORT OF STEVE BYRNES AND STAND UP TO CANCER, race fans, race teams, NASCAR and track officials, co-workers, friends and family came together to surround him with a remarkable display of love and respect. A shining example of husband, father, friend and consummate professional, Steve Byrnes will forever be remembered as one of the good guys–his time with us cherished and appreciated.”
In addition to his time with Fox Sports, Steve Byrnes reported for CBS, TNN, and WTBS. At the time of his passing, he was a play-by-play announcer and co-host for NASCAR.
Many members of the NASCAR family are mourning the passing of Steve Byrnes. He had become personal friends with some of the NASCAR drivers, including Danica Patrick and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Many players shared their sorrow via Twitter.
Very sad to hear about our friend Steve Byrnes passing today. Huge loss for our racing family. He was one of the best ever! We will miss you
— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) April 21, 2015
Condolences are likely coming from all parts of the country to Steve Byrnes’s family and NASCAR friends. May they find solace in the contributions he made throughout his lengthy career.
NASCAR world mourns passing of Steve Byrnes http://t.co/4FirBug0SR pic.twitter.com/qKT5qRLOhJ
— Formula One World (@FormulaOneWorld) April 22, 2015