Leland Shores Jr.

Leland “Red” Shores Jr. was called Home to Heaven by The Lord on Wednesday, October 15th2025.

To this day, “Red” is remembered by his peers for his military service in the Air Force as a C-130 Hercules Flight Engineer; and additionally, later in life, as a premier Formula 1 Boat Racing Champion.

Born December 20, 1939 in Salisbury, Maryland, Mr. Leland Shores Jr. adored his father, Mr. Leland Shores, Sr., who was a well known auto mechanic who operated a town garage shop.

“Red” adored and dearly cherished his time through his younger years working alongside his father Leland Shores Sr. over summers and free time after school.

“Red” was a quick study. He watched his father closely, learning firsthand. “Red” was fascinated by his dad’s knowledge of combustion engines.

Suddenly, on August 1, 1951, everything changed. That morning Red’s father, Leland Shores Sr., died unexpectedly in a train accident in Cheriton, Virginia.

At this time, “Red” was 11 yrs old and this moment became the singular moment which would define his life as a man.

During his high school years at Wicomico Senior High, “Red” became a well known sought after practitioner of mechanical engineering in his community.

A chance of a lifetime presented itself suddenly when Mr. Brown asked “Red” if he would become a driver for his team of high powered race boats.

“Red” accepted the challenge to pilot one of Mr. Brown’s race boats.

As they say, the rest is history.

Not only would “Red” would go on to win that first race, but “Red” would go on to become a legendary Formula 1 Boat Race Champion in his later years as well.

Also, during his young years, let it be known that Red’s graduation from Wicomico Senior High in 1957 marked another milestone in life; as on the day following his graduation, “Red” joined the United States Air Force; and to which – and in short order – “Red” would become a distinguished status US Air Force Flight Engineer on the recently baptized C-130 Hercules aircraft.

There is much more to honor and say with regards of the life of Leland “Red” Shores Jr. “Red” was a people person. His personage was always cart blanche. His turn of phrase, and sidecar humor, was second to none.

But more than that, Red was one to help anyone as he could at every turn. He made the world a better and grander place. Red was a true cowboy. He was a great American. He was a great Christian who lived to make all lives better at every step and beyond compare. Red was an original. The real Truth. Of Love. Of Life. Of Laughter. And none like Red shall pass this way again. Amen.

Leland “Red” Shores Jr. is survived by his daughter Gaytha Shores and his son Buddy Shores; as well as his step sons Michael Brinks and David Brinks; and lastly, and so dearly missed, by his one and greatest love his wife Barbara Bear.

Leland “Red” Shores was born on December 20, 1939 and called Home to Heaven by The Lord on October 15th 2025.

May His Soul Rest In Peace With The Lord Forever.

A Memorial Service for Leland “Red” Shores Jr. will be held October 29, 2025 at First Baptist Church of New Orleans located at 5920 Canal Boulevard. Visitation 10:00 am – 11:00 am Memorial Service 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Interment to follow at Lakelawn Metairie Cemetery 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. Arrangements by Mothe Funeral Home.