John Davis "J.D." Pridgen,79, of Mullins passed away peacefully on Monday, May 18, 2020 at McLeod Hospice House surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Horry County on October 28, 1940, the son of the late Jack Pridgen and the late Minnie Causey Jackson.

J.D.'s true passion in life was racing. During his racing career, he won 489 races and hoped to make it to 500, but he received his final checkered flag before he could reach this goal.  His last race was at Lake View Speedway on October 3, 2019, where at the age of 78, he finished sixth.  He made many friends through racing.  He had a great sense of humor that could put a smile on your face.  Anyone who knew him knew how special he was.  He also enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family, especially his great-granddaughter, Leighton and being at his son's side at Pridgen Automotive.

In addition to his parents, J.D. was predeceased by a daughter, Patricia Pingley Soles, a brother, L.J. Pridgen and a sister, Elsie Pridgen.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Patricia Williamson of Mullins, a son, John Davis Pridgen, Jr. (Donna) of Marion; three daughters, Karen Pridgen Edwards (Dan) of Mullins, Angie Pridgen Duncan (Matt Hartley) and Lisa Pridgen, both of Cerro Gordo, NC; two sisters, Linda Williamson (Richard) of Cherry Grove, NC and Debra Kay Pridgen of Mullins, eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2020 at Lake Swamp Baptist Church Cemetery in Loris. The family supports the recommended social distancing standards and asks that everyone respect this for their safety.

The family would like to thank Lake View Speedway for their compassion and support during this difficult time.

If you would like to remember J.D., the family suggests that memorials be made in his memory to Lake View Speedway, c/o Scott Tripp, 113 Junco Circle, Longs, South Carolina 29568.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.