On December 29, 2023, hundreds gathered at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina, to pay tribute to former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family, who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash earlier that month. Biffle, aged 55, was accompanied by his wife, Cristina, and their two children, Emma (14) and Ryder (5), among others, when their Cessna C550 aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport.
A Fond Farewell
The service was marked by heartfelt speeches from friends and fellow drivers, including popular YouTube influencer Garrett Mitchell, known as “Cleetus McFarland.” Mitchell reflected on Biffle’s legacy, stating, “We have all been saying, ‘Be like Biff,’ since we lost our hero. What does that mean? It means taking opportunities when you see them.”
Mitchell encouraged attendees to embody Biffle’s spirit by pursuing dreams and supporting loved ones. He emphasized the importance of generosity and compassion, qualities that defined Biffle’s character both on and off the track.
Biffle’s niece, Jordyn Biffle, shared poignant memories of the family, recounting how Ryder idolized his father and highlighting Cristina’s nurturing nature. “Their lives remind us that what matters isn’t how long we are here but how we use the time we are given,” she said. “While this loss is devastating, their impact remains etched into all of us who were lucky enough to know and love them.”
A Legacy of Achievement and Kindness
Throughout his 18-year career in NASCAR, Biffle earned recognition as one of the sport’s top drivers, being named one of NASCAR’s top 75 drivers in history and receiving a Hall of Fame nomination. He was known not only for his racing prowess but also for his humanitarian efforts, notably his work as a helicopter pilot delivering aid after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the region.
Outside the coliseum, race fans gathered to view three cars that Biffle drove during his career, while inside, a videoboard displayed photographs of the seven victims of the crash. Wreaths adorned the stage where Mitchell, Biffle, and former drivers Jeff Burton and Phil Parsons spoke, paying tribute to a man who left a lasting mark on the NASCAR community.
The tragic crash has left the NASCAR community reeling, coming in a difficult offseason that has seen additional challenges, including a house fire that claimed the life of Denny Hamlin‘s father and destroyed a home built in gratitude for years of sacrifice.
In the wake of the crash, authorities are investigating a reported burglary at Biffle’s home in Mooresville, where approximately $30,000 in cash, firearms, and memorabilia were stolen.
As part of the public tribute, Mitchell announced plans to perform a burnout later that day near Biffle’s marker along the North Carolina Auto Racing Walk of Fame, a fitting homage to a beloved figure who inspired many both on the racetrack and in life.
