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Benny Parsons Photo By: John Amis, AP Former NASCAR champion Benny Parsons has died Benny Parsons, a former taxi driver who became a NASCAR champion in 1972, has died after a short battle with lung cancer. He was 65. Word of his death comes from his son, Keith. Parsons was diagnosed with cancer in his left lung in July after complaining of difficulty breathing. Named one of NASCAR's 50 greatest drivers, Parsons retired from racing in 1988 and moved into the broadcasting booth. He spent the past six years as a TV commentator and continued to call races from the booth during his treatment. Benny was a beloved and widely respected member of the NASCAR community, and of the NBC Sports family. He was a great driver and a terrific broadcaster, but above anything else he was a kind and generous human being, his character and spirit will define how he is remembered by all of us. Survivors include wife Terri, sons Kevin and Keith, a former sports writer for The Associated Press, and two granddaughters. Parsons was preceded in death by his first wife, Connie. "I am so very grateful that I had an opportunity to meet Benny at last years Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Not only was he a Former NASCAR champion, Benny was also a true Champion of the heart, mind, and spirit". "My thoughts and prayers are with the Parsons family during this regretful time, their loss will be felt by all of us"... Lee Roy Mercer Tony Stewart, Benny Parsons, Lee Roy Mercer & Jack Roush Photo By: Jon Holtz