Lynn S. Paxton

Lynn S. Paxton, 80, of Dillsburg, PA, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 19, 1944, in Harrisburg, PA, to the late Melvin and Bernadette E. (Strayer) Paxton.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara E. (Deardorff) Paxton of Dillsburg, PA; three children, Brett Paxton and his wife Shelby, Stacie Madara and her husband Ryan, and Brooke Shambach and her husband Brad; and his eight cherished grandchildren, Shea, Hailey, Haydn, Hunter, Addison, Asher, Liam, and Henle and also his devoted canine companion Augie. He was preceded in death by his sister, Patsy Berger.

Lynn proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. After his military service, he followed his passion for craftsmanship and cars, becoming the owner and operator of his own restoration shop, Paxton Enterprises. His skill in restoring classic automobiles earned him recognition and respect within the community and among car enthusiasts.

Lynn graduated from Mechanicsburg High School in 1961, and immediately opened his own garage business and pursued his ambition to become a competitive race car driver. During the next twenty years, his skill and competitive nature resulted in more than 250 feature wins, 11 track championships, 2 KARS championships, and back-to-back Williams Grove National Open Championships. His wins were in every variety of car ranging from late models, sportsman, sprints, and midgets. At the peak of his career Lynn drove his last race and won the Williams Grove National Open Championship in 1983. He voluntarily walked away at the age of 39 to devote more time to his family and to the business of restoring vintage cars.

Lynn embarked on countless journeys with his wife by his side, including the remarkable feat of sailing around Cape Horn. They cherished the experiences of cruising to many beautiful and remote parts of the world, collecting stories and friendships along the way. 

A passionate advocate for motorsports, Lynn was one of the original founders of the Williams Grove Old Timers/Eastern Museum of Motor Racing. He was a driving force behind the creation of the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing at Latimore Valley Fairgrounds. His love for the history of the sport inspired him to help preserve its legacy for future generations, allowing others to share in the joy and excitement of racing.

Lynn thrived in the company of fellow car enthusiasts, frequently attending events such as the Carlisle Spring Swap and the Hershey AACA Car Show. His dedication extended beyond the track; he volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and was involved with The Lions Club, contributing to his community in meaningful ways.

He was a proud member of various car clubs, including the Area Racing Club of Hagerstown (ARCH), York County Racing Club, Gettysburg Region AACA, American Racing Drivers Club (ARDC), the Checkered Flag Fan Club, and USAC.

A testament to his remarkable achievements, Lynn was inducted into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. He received the Service to Humanity award from the Mechanicsburg Alumni and was also honored by several racing organizations including the York County Racing Club, the Eastern Motorsports Press Association, the Auto Racing Club of Hagerstown, and the Susquehanna Speedway.

Lynn will be remembered for his dedication to his craft, his love for family, and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Celebrating the life of Lynn Paxton, services will be held Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 Lincoln Way East, New Oxford, PA, 17350 with Pastor Joel Hummel officiating. A time of fellowship will be held from 3:00 - 5:00 PM at the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing, 100 Baltimore Road, York Springs, PA 17372. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing. Arrangements are being handled by Hollinger Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Mt. Holly Springs. Visit HollingerFuneralHome.com to offer condolences to the family.