Stephan Hamilton “Steve” Waid, 77, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center.
Born on October 6, 1948, in Richmond, Virginia, Steve was the son of Col. Lewis Carroll Waid and Helen Lois McCann Waid.

Steve built a distinguished career spanning more than five decades as one of the most respected and trusted voices in motorsports journalism.
Steve’s passion for racing began early and led him to a legendary career covering NASCAR. Beginning at Martinsville Speedway in 1971, he became known throughout the racing community for his integrity, knowledge, storytelling ability, and unwavering dedication to the sport. He worked for the Roanoke Times until 1980 when he took a risk at working for a racing newspaper that only had a publication of 6000. He then became the Vice President of Grand National Scene and reorganized the paper, making it grow to over 150,000. Then on to several other NASCAR magazines as the media evolved and expanded.

In 2014 he was inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Hall of Fame.
In 2019, he was honored with the Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence, and inducted into NASCAR Hall of Fame.
More important than his professional accomplishments was the man behind the byline. Steve was known for his kindness, generosity, sharp wit, and genuine interest in people. He formed lifelong friendships throughout the racing community and touched countless lives through both his work and his friends.
Steve’s legacy lives on through his family, his friendships, and the countless stories he told throughout a lifetime devoted to the sport he loved.In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his dear friends Tom Higgins, Junior Johnson and Alan Kulwicki.
Steve is survived by his brother L.Randolph Waid, PhD, sister in-law Debby Waid, neice Janet Forest, his beloved wife Margaret Rose Bouldin Waid whom he married on October 3, 1970, and with whom he shared more than 55 years of love, partnership, and adventure. He is also survived by his awesome daughter Ann Celeste Waid, son Stephan Andru Waid, cats Lulu and Binx, amazing cousin Diana Ratcliffe, and many cherished friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be shared through Carolina Cremation. Carolina Cremation is assisting the Waid family.
https://carolinacremation.com/