Leo Thomas Shelor, 89, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025. Born in Virginia to Albert Shelor and Dorothy Duncan, Leo lived a life built on hard work, loyalty, and simple joys.
In his younger years, Leo proudly served in the U.S. Army for four years before settling down to build a career that spanned nearly four decades at Kimnach Ford, where he worked as a trusted auto mechanic for 39 years. Known for his steady hands, honest work, and good humor, he was the kind of man people counted on—both under the hood and in life.
Leo was lovingly married to his wife, Mary, for 68 years, and together they raised five children: Rick, Gary, Robert, Michelle, and Tom Shelor as well as multiple grandchildren and gret-grandchildren. His family was the center of his world, and his love for them ran as deep as the roots of the tomato plants he tended each season.
A true master of the garden, Leo was proudly known as “The Tomato Whisperer.” Every summer, his vines burst with perfect, juicy tomatoes and the very first of the season always found its way onto a hot biscuit with mayo, salt, and pepper (a tradition the family highly recommends).
When he wasn’t coaxing tomatoes to life, Leo could often be found strumming tunes on his acoustic guitar, humming along to old favorites and sharing music with anyone who’d listen.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and the sweet smell of tomato vines on a summer breeze.
No services are scheduled at this time.
