Sincere condolences for your loss. But it’s a loss for all who knew Popcorn. I worked with him. I raced with him. We were great friends.if needed a part for the car he was there. So sorry for all of us who lost him.
William E. "Popcorn" Sallee
October 8, 1949 ~ October 7, 2026
Born in:
Franklin, Indiana
Resided in:
Columbus, Indiana
William E. “Popcorn” Sallee, 76, of Columbus, IN, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at Our Hospice Inpatient Facility. Popcorn was born on October 8, 1949 in Franklin, IN to William R. Sallee and Vina Corbin Sallee. He married Wanda L. Sexton on August 25, 1968.
Popcorn was a proud Army Veteran and retired from Cummins Engine Company in 2009 after 37 years of dedicated service. His strong work ethic and dependable nature were evident throughout his career, and those qualities carried into every part of his life. He was mechanically inclined and had a natural ability to understand how things worked, a gift that served him well both at work and at the racetrack. He was always willing to lend a hand, especially when other drivers needed help getting their cars ready. His generosity with his time and knowledge made him a valued friend and respected presence in the racing community.
For 51 years, Popcorn was a dirt track racer, a pursuit that became one of the defining joys of his life. He was a former track champion at Twin Cities Raceway Park and was honored as a member of its Hall of Fame, recognition that reflected both his talent and his dedication to the sport. Racing was more than a hobby to him. It was a way of life, a source of friendship, excitement, and pride. He especially treasured the fact that his son, sons-in-law, and grandsons also raced, carrying forward a tradition that meant so much to him. Watching his family share in that same passion brought him great happiness and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Popcorn’s car, known as “Popcorn #33,” was a familiar and beloved sight to many who followed local racing. His favorite color was orange, and that bright spirit seemed to match the energy he brought to the track and to those around him. He enjoyed NASCAR and spent many hours watching old racing videos, reliving the moments and memories that made the sport so meaningful to him. Whether he was behind the wheel, in the garage, or watching a race from home, he found joy in the sound, speed, and camaraderie of racing.
He will be remembered as a hardworking man with a kind heart, a sharp mind, and a deep appreciation for family and friendship. Popcorn Sallee lived with purpose and enthusiasm, and he left behind a legacy of perseverance, skill, and love for the sport that defined so much of his life. His presence will be missed at the track, in the garage, and by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory with military honors provided by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard. Calling hours will be from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
Survivors include his wife, Wanda Sallee; children, Thomas Sallee of Elizabethtown, IN, Cindy (Ross) Smith and April (Jerry) Perry both of Columbus, IN; brother, David (Sally) Sallee of Iowa; grandchildren, Levi (Gwen) Sallee, Joshua Sallee, Elijah Smith, Isaiah Smith, Macey Burton, Dustin (Tiffany) Pastrick, Dakotah Pastrick, Kendra (Jared) Nolker, Hunter (Malie) Perry, Austin (Jessi) Perry, Chelsea (Jason) Kummer, Zach Perry, Diamond (Kenny) Robinson; great grandchildren, Briggs, Allison, Karson, Nolan, Taylen, Anthony, Braylen, Zaydyn, Sam, Luke Zhoie, Kassidy and Kelsie.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Hospice of South-Central Indiana.
Popcorn was preceded in death by his parents, William and Vina Sallee; brother, Danny Sallee and daughter-in-law, Michelle Sallee.
Services
Visitation:
Monday, October 12, 2026
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Jewell ~ Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory
3855 25th St
Columbus, IN 47203
(812) 372-9923
Add to My Calendar
America/Indiana/Indianapolis
2026-10-12 16:00:00
2026-10-12 08:00:00
WilliamE. "Popcorn"SalleeVisitation
Visitation
3855 25th St,Columbus, IN 47203
Visitation:
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Jewell ~ Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory
3855 25th St
Columbus, IN 47203
(812) 372-9923
Add to My Calendar
America/Indiana/Indianapolis
2026-10-13 13:00:00
2026-10-13 02:00:00
WilliamE. "Popcorn"SalleeVisitation
Visitation
3855 25th St,Columbus, IN 47203
Funeral Service:
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
2:00 pm
Jewell ~ Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory
3855 25th St
Columbus, IN 47203
(812) 372-9923
Add to My Calendar
America/Indiana/Indianapolis
2026-10-13 14:00:00
2026-10-13 14:00:00
WilliamE. "Popcorn"SalleeFuneral Service
Funeral Service
3855 25th St,Columbus, IN 47203
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