CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Famed NASCAR artist Sam Bass has died.

His wife posted a statement on his Twitter account Saturday afternoon saying he passed away, earlier in the day.

Bass had been searching for a new kidney after years of fighting type one diabetes. He was the first officially licensed NASCAR artist.

"Our deepest sympathies are with Denise and her family today. Sam Bass has been a significant part of NASCAR’s history. He poured his heart, soul and talent into producing souvenir program covers at many speedways including Charlotte for more than 30 years. His work provided our fans a keepsake to treasure, and that was so appropriate, because Sam was always such a fan of our sport and he was such a treasure to the entire NASCAR family. His body of work will be a legacy that lives forever. We will miss Sam’s smile and positivity."    

His funeral service will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at Rocky Ridge United Methodist Church in Concord. The family will greet friends following the service in the fellowship hall until 1:30 p.m., and a private burial for the family will follow.

Bass was 57 years old.