Introduction

Cristina Grossu was many things long before her name became part of a national headline. She was an entrepreneur, a real estate professional, a published author, a devoted mother, and a woman known by those closest to her for her generosity and heart for service.

In December, public attention turned to Cristina following a devastating plane crash in North Carolina that claimed her life, alongside her husband — NASCAR champion Greg Biffle — their young son, and other family members. As investigations continue, interest in Cristina Grossu has surged, not only because of the tragedy, but because people want to understand who she was beyond the news.

Who Cristina Grossu Was

Cristina Grossu, also known as Cristina Grossu Biffle, was an American entrepreneur, real estate agent, author, and philanthropically minded businesswoman. She lived largely outside the celebrity spotlight, even after marrying one of NASCAR’s most respected drivers.

Those who knew her describe Cristina as compassionate, driven, and deeply intentional about how she lived her life — balancing ambition with empathy.

Her Connection to Greg Biffle

Cristina was the wife of Greg Biffle, a NASCAR champion with 19 Cup Series wins and titles across multiple NASCAR national series.

The couple married on New Year’s Eve 2022 in an intimate ceremony on Pearl Island in the Bahamas, a place Cristina later described as their “favorite spot.” Together, they built a family-centered life largely away from public attention.

Why Cristina Grossu Is Relevant Now

Cristina Grossu became the focus of global attention following the fatal Cessna C550 plane crash near Statesville Regional Airport in Iredell County, North Carolina, which killed seven people.

The crash, which occurred as the aircraft attempted to return to the airport shortly after takeoff amid severe weather, claimed the lives of:

• Cristina Grossu Biffle

• Greg Biffle

• Their 5-year-old son Ryder

• Greg’s daughter Emma, 14

• Dennis Dutton

• Jack Dutton

• Craig Wadsworth

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the NTSB and FAA.

Early Life & Childhood

Cristina Grossu was raised in a close family environment that emphasized independence, creativity, and compassion. From a young age, she showed signs of entrepreneurial thinking — something she would later describe as part of her identity.

While Cristina kept much of her early childhood private, her mother, Cathy Grossu, has spoken publicly about their close bond and Cristina’s deep love for family.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Cristina was the daughter of Cathy Grossu, who has shared emotional accounts of her daughter’s final days and her lifelong generosity.

Details about Cristina’s father and any siblings have not been publicly disclosed, and Cristina herself appeared intentional about keeping extended family life private — a choice consistent with how she lived overall.

Education

Cristina was highly educated and career-driven.

• She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California (USC)

• She later completed an MBA at Purdue University

Her academic background laid the foundation for a diverse professional life that blended business, real estate, and education.

Career & Professional Life

Cristina described herself as a “serial entrepreneur” — a label she said applied to her since childhood.

Entrepreneurship

At just 12 years old, she began flipping thrift-store finds for profit, planting the seeds for her future ventures.

She later founded My Replica Ring, a company specializing in creating exact replicas of sentimental rings — wedding bands, heirlooms, and meaningful jewelry — for clients who wanted emotional continuity without risk.

Real Estate

Cristina was also the owner of Leisurely Real Estate, based in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Her work focused on residential listings, client education, and long-term value.

She frequently spoke about the realities of real estate — long hours, persistence, and delayed gratification — framing success as something built patiently.

Author

In 2023, Cristina published a children’s book titled Learning to Earn With Romanza Madge, an educational story that teaches young readers about earning money through responsibility and initiative.

Personal Life & Relationships

Cristina married Greg Biffle after several years together. Greg had previously been married to Nicole Lunders (2007–2016), with whom he shared a daughter, Emma.

Cristina embraced life as a blended family and was deeply involved in both children’s lives.

She and Greg welcomed their son Ryder on September 9, 2020, a moment Cristina frequently described as life-changing.

Her social media reflected gratitude, presence, and a recurring message: don’t take moments for granted.

Character, Values & Philanthropy

Cristina was widely remembered for her generosity.

According to her mother, one of Cristina’s final acts was funding and organizing Santa letters for families in need, personally ensuring they were mailed before her trip.

A close friend, Erica Zangwill, described her as “one in a million” with “the biggest heart,” noting that Cristina consistently put others before herself.

Recent News: The Plane Crash

On December 18, Cristina Grossu texted her mother from the plane, writing:

“We’re in trouble.”

Minutes later, the aircraft crashed while attempting to land.

The family was traveling on what was described as a birthday trip to Florida. Weather conditions and mechanical factors are currently under investigation. Officials have stated that a full report may take several months.

Interesting Facts About Cristina Grossu

• Started entrepreneurial ventures at age 12

• Held both a USC degree and a Purdue MBA

• Founded a sentimental jewelry replication company

• Published a children’s financial literacy book

• Quietly funded charitable acts without publicity

 

Conclusion

Cristina Grossu’s life was not defined by tragedy — it was defined by intention.

She built businesses with purpose, raised her children with presence, loved generously, and lived with empathy. While the circumstances of her death have drawn public attention, it is how she lived that continues to resonate.

Cristina Grossu will be remembered not just as the wife of Greg Biffle, but as a woman who embraced every moment — and made those moments matter.

FAQ

Who was Cristina Grossu?
Cristina Grossu was an entrepreneur, real estate agent, author, and the wife of NASCAR champion Greg Biffle.

How did Cristina Grossu die?
She died in a plane crash near Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina while traveling with her family.

Did Cristina Grossu have children?
Yes. She shared a son, Ryder, with Greg Biffle and was stepmother to his daughter Emma.

What was Cristina Grossu’s profession?
She was a serial entrepreneur, real estate broker, and children’s book author.

Who are Cristina Grossu’s parents?
Her mother is Cathy Grossu. Other parental details have not been publicly disclosed.