When Junie Donlavey Closed His Door
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, Read On!
Ok, I am betting that every man listening to this show tonight knows already, or has been reminded by thousands of radio, television and newspaper ads that today is Valentine’s Day. If, by now, you have not already gifted your sweetheart with a card, candy, flowers, or other gifts, or combination of gifts, it is a pretty good bet Fido is going to be in the house tonight and YOU and going to be outside in Fido’s little house. That is NOT a sexist statement, it is just what you are led to believe if you pay attention to the advertisements. I love the ones where you are being enticed, in fact, almost threatened with disaster if you don’t buy your sweetheart a new Lexus, Infiniti, or a couple hundred thousand dollars worth of diamonds. I am very fortunate that Ms. Ann is content with our home and the fact that we have each other and it is not necessary to spend so much money. A dozen roses where $18.00 last week and this week those same dozen roses are $70.00 WITHOUT a vase. And you think florist are not crooks!!!!! And to any florist listening, I am NOT going to apologize for that.
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