The racing world is mourning the loss of Adria Force Hight, a cornerstone of the John Force Racing dynasty, who passed away at the age of 56. As the eldest daughter of 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion John Force, Adria was far more than a family member—she was the organizational backbone of one of motorsports' most dominant teams.
After graduating from Huntington Beach High School, Adria jumped headfirst into the family business during its early, gritty days. She was among the very first employees of John Force Racing, a time when the operation was built on sheer determination and a love for the sport. Her role evolved dramatically over the years: she started by answering phones and selling T-shirts out of the team's race trailer, but her sharp business acumen quickly became evident. Adria eventually rose to become the team's Chief Financial Officer, helping steer John Force Racing into a powerhouse that has collected countless championships and wins.
The announcement of her passing came through a heartfelt social media post from the team, which read in part: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Adria (Force) Hight... She played an instrumental role in building the organization from the ground up." The post resonated deeply with fans and colleagues alike, highlighting the quiet strength and tireless dedication that defined her career.
Adria's impact extended far beyond the balance sheets. She was a steady presence in the pits and a unifying force for a family that has become synonymous with drag racing excellence. In a sport where the roar of engines often takes center stage, Adria's work behind the scenes ensured that the team could keep chasing records and glory.
She is survived by her daughter Autumn Hight (Nathan Prose), her mother Lana Starks, her father John and his wife Laurie, her fiancé Jimmy Collins, and her sisters—fellow racers Ashley (Daniel Hood), Brittany (Bobby Lyons), and Courtney (Graham Rahal)—along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Gracey and C.N. Bonee, and Betty and Bill Force.
In accordance with Adria's wishes, private services will be held, with burial following at Roselawn Memorial Park in Terre Haute, Indiana. A celebration of her life is planned for later this year in California, where friends, family, and the racing community will have the opportunity to honor a woman who helped build a legend from the ground up.