Larry Sparks, who served as Jeff Gordon's driving instructor, was killed after watching Gordon race to a second place finish at Martinsville Sunday. The 77-year-old was a loyal fan of the No. 24 and a friend to Gordon as well.

Jeff tweeted about the tragedy.

Mr. Sparks was driving his RV back home on Monday morning when he ended up off the road on Interstate 75 for an unknown reason, striking a tree. His wife Jackie was also killed upon impact.

According to WTHR-TV, those who knew him said he loved to tell people how he was Gordon's driver's ed teacher, every chance he got.

Please keep the Sparks family in your thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.