Roy Mack Little, Jr.

Roy Mack Little Jr., lovingly known as “Big Mack” and “Pop,” passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. He was born July 21, 1955, in Ashe County, North Carolina, and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, man of faith, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Pop was married to his beloved wife, Gracie, for 52 years. He was devoted to Gracie and spent the last several years caring for her and being by her side. His love and devotion to his wife and family were an important part of who he was.

Pop worked for R.J. Reynolds for 42 years as a machinist. He took great pride in his work and in the many years he devoted to his career.

Pop was a man of many passions, especially racing, hunting, and fishing. He loved building engines with his lifelong friend, Larry Pinnix. Pop enjoyed owning racecars and working alongside his son, Mack Little III, throughout Mack’s 26 years of racing. Together, Pop and Mack won 16 championships and 225 races, creating an incredible legacy in racing. Pop was honored as the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Crew Chief of the Year in 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2015.

After Mack retired from driving, Pop continued to spend time at the racetrack, where he enjoyed helping other drivers and teams. He was always willing to share his knowledge, lend a hand, and help wherever he could. Racing remained a big part of Pop’s life, and he found great joy in being on the track and helping others.

Pop and Mack also shared a love of catfishing and spent many days on the water together competing in tournaments, where they celebrated several wins. Whether they were at the racetrack, in the shop working on racecars, or on the water fishing, some of Pop’s best memories were made alongside his son.

Outside of racing and fishing, Pop enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors. He was a man of faith who loved his family and cherished the time he spent with those closest to him.

Pop is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Gracie; his son, Roy “Mack” Little III, and daughter-in-law, Pam; his grandson, Matthew Arnold; his brother, Donnie Little Sr.; his sister, Janet Eaton and partner Keith Rothrock; his nephews, Donnie Ray Little Jr., Andy Flynt, and Duane Prater; and his niece, Amy Little.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Mack Little Sr. and Sue Goodman Little, and his brother, Robert Little.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel with Pastor Eddie Sizamore officiating. Burial will follow in Eastlawn Garden of Memories. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to give special thanks to his sister-in-law, Shirley Prater; his nephew, Duane Prater; and Lisa Logan for helping care for Pop over the past year. Their love, time, and support meant so much to Pop and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Pop’s memory to Antioch Baptist Church in Reidsville or to LiveLung, supporting their Small Cell Lung Cancer community and their mission to provide education, support, and compassion to those affected by lung cancer.

Pop will be deeply missed, but the memories he created with his family and friends will live on forever. His love for Gracie, his son, his family, racing, fishing, hunting, and the outdoors will forever be a part of his legacy.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Rest peacefully, Pop. You will always be loved, always remembered, and never forgotten.