by: PattyKay Lilley

Ten years ago, in 2002, a door closed, the echo of which is still resounding in the hallowed halls of NASCAR history. On that day, drivers and race fans bade a sad farewell to one of NASCAR's all-time greats, when Wesley C. "Junie" Donlavey announced that he was closing his storied Donlavey Racing shop in Richmond Virginia and planned to enjoy a well-earned retirement with his beloved wife Phyllis.

I'm not at all sure that I possess enough adjectives or superlatives to impart to you my admiration and respect for Junie Donlavey, but I have to try.  This warmhearted native of Richmond, Virginia is more than worthy of whatever praises I can sing here, and deserving of so much more.

Junie is an original, in every sense of the word.  Admittedly, I am old, but Junie makes me look young, if one is counting years alone.  He will turn 88 on April 8 of this year.  When his long run came to an end,