JACKSONVILLE, N.C. – Eastern North Carolina is mourning the loss of a well-known dealership owner.

John Stevenson, owner of Stevenson Automotive Group, died suddenly Monday inside of his Jacksonville Toyota dealership.

The 69-year-old owned 11 dealerships throughout the state.

He also started Stevenson Motorsports Racing Team in 2006, which earned 33 wins and numerous top tens.

Aside from his love for cars, Stevenson was passionate about making the community better, serving on clubs and financially assisting various organizations.

“Everybody will be just a little bit closer because we all have these memories to discuss and remind each other of the one thing that brings everybody together,” said Michael Hoffman of Stevenson Motorsports.

Stevenson is survived by his wife of 45 years and two daughters.

A funeral service will be held Friday at Trinity United Methodish Church in Jacksonville at 1 p.m.