J.D. Gibbs, the son of former Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs, died Friday after a battle with a degenerative neurological disease. He was 49.
The news was announced early Saturday morning in a tweet from Joe Gibbs Racing, the NASCAR team J.D. helped establish with his father in 1991.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joe Gibbs Racing Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, J.D. Gibbs, who passed away earlier tonight at the age of 49 from complications following a long battle with a degenerative neurological disease. pic.twitter.com/kmyKRHupeq
— Joe Gibbs Racing (@JoeGibbsRacing)
January 12, 2019 "Joe Gibbs Racing appreciates everyone’s respect for the privacy of the Gibbs family during this difficult time,” a statement read. And said a memorial service would be announced at a future date.
A statement from Redskins owner Daniel Snyder and wife Tanya expressed their condolences to the Gibbs family.
A statement from Redskins owner Dan Snyder and his wife, Tanya. pic.twitter.com/pNpYJ7rdb6
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins)
January 12, 2019 "For anyone who had the honor and privilege to know J.D., he was instantly recognized as a champion in life and sports," the statement read.
Former NASCAR driver and Redskins fan Dale Earnhardt Jr. called J.D. "an incredible person."
What an incredible person. So very kind and humble. Thinking of the Gibbs family and all his friends at JGR. https://t.co/jqTq414630
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr)
January 12, 2019 Heartbroken to learn of the passing of JD Gibbs, elder son of Coach Joe & Pat Gibbs, at 49, after long illness. JD was widely admired & warmly regarded throughout NASCAR--affable, humble, great at his job & a rock for his family. Condolences to the Gibbs family & all at JGR
— Liz Clarke (@lizclarketweet)
January 12, 2019 Joe Gibbs acknowledged his son’s illness during a news conference in March 2015, explaining J.D. had been dealing with brain-function problems since late 2014.
