Bobby Ray Shelor of Meadows of Dan, Virginia, died on Sunday, May 4, 2025 in Stuart, Virginia. He was born in Meade, West Virginia, on November 17, 1934, the son of Sandy Samuel and Thelma Steadham Shelor. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Janet Shelor Martin. He spent most of his childhood in Meadows of Dan.
Mr. Shelor was proud of his service in the United States Navy during the late 1950s. His tour of duty on the USS Darby took him throughout the world from his station in Norfolk, Virginia. He often told stories of hitchhiking home to the mountains from the coast and of traveling in the Mediterranean. He reached the rank of Shipfitter Petty Officer, Third Class, in his four years of service.
On his return home, Mr. Shelor trained as an electrician who held several positions throughout the years with the Town of Stuart and Patrick County, including Building Inspector and Town Manager. He retired as Town Manager of the Town of Lincolnton, in Georgia. He eventually moved back to Meadows of Dan, where he lived until his admittance to Blue Ridge Therapy Connections in 2022.
A favorite pastime throughout his life was fly fishing on the streams and creeks in his native Patrick County hills. Mr. Shelor was a dedicated member of the Seventh-day Adventist church in Stuart, Virginia, until his health prevented his attendance. He very much enjoyed the many visits from the members of the congregation to the nursing home.
Left to honor his memory are one son, Sammy Shelor (Jordyn), one daughter, Leslie Shelor, two grandsons, Samuel Ellis Shelor and Matthew River Shelor, three nephews and two nieces and numerous cousins.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Blue Ridge Therapy Connections for their care of Mr. Shelor during his last years and brief illness.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 220 Patrick Avenue, Stuart, VA 24120. Moody Funeral Home in Stuart has been entrusted with the arrangements and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
