Jesse Roger Sheckler

Jesse Roger Sheckler, 75, of Stanardsville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous three-year battle with vascular dementia. 

Born on April 21, 1951, in Madison, Virginia, Jesse was the son of the late Paul and Effie Celia Sheckler. 

Jesse graduated from Shenandoah Valley Academy in 1970, where he left his mark both in the classroom and on the track. He set a school record in the one-mile run with an incredible time of 4 minutes, 11 seconds, a record that reflected the determination and work ethic that would define the rest of his life. 

After graduation, Jesse began his career at Teledyne Avionics before following his true passion: working on automobiles, which was inspired by his dad. He joined Brady Bushey Ford in Charlottesville, where his talent as a mechanic quickly became evident. In 1979, he fulfilled his dream of owning his own business by opening Sheckler's Garage & Used Cars. For the next 44 years, he faithfully served his community through his repair shop and 24-hour wrecker service, earning a reputation for honesty, hard work, and always being willing to help someone in need. Alongside his wife, Becky, he also owned and operated Big A Auto Parts for 15 years, until 1999. 

On January 20, 1980, Jesse married the love of his life, Rebecca "Becky" Lohr Sheckler. For more than 46 years, they built a life together centered on faithfulness, family, hard work, and unconditional love. They were true partners in every sense of the word, whether running a business, raising a family, or simply enjoying life's everyday moments together. 

Jesse was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He held a black belt in karate. In 1983 and 1984, he earned the title of Strongest Man of Greene County in powerlifting. His love for automobiles extended beyond the garage and onto the racetrack. From 1988 through 2000, he raced his #51 Super Late Model Chevrolet on dirt tracks at Eastside, Saluda, Winchester, and Natural Bridge Speedways. His passion and success in racing earned him induction into the Dirt Track Hall of Fame, as well as both the Natural Bridge and Eastside Speedway Halls of Fame. 

As much as Jesse loved cars and racing, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 46 years, Becky; his daughters, Melissa Sheckler Shifflett and Ashley Sheckler, AKA Potsie; his son-in-law, Brian F. Shifflett, whom he loved as his own son; and the lights of his life, his grandchildren, Brayen and Caydence Shifflett. He is also survived by his daughter, Penny Bauer, and her children, Dalton and Rachel Bauer, of Baltimore, Maryland. 

One of Jesse's greatest joys was sharing his knowledge of auto mechanics and go-kart racing with his grandson. He treasured the time they spent together going fishing, working in the garage, and hoped one day Brayen would carry on the family business. He also loved attending Caydence’s volleyball and soccer games, school events, and every milestone he could. His grandchildren never had to wonder if Papa would be there; he always was. 

Jesse was an avid antique car collector and especially enjoyed attending classic car events at Charlotte Motor Speedway and Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Whether talking about engines, admiring a beautifully restored classic, or watching a race, he was happiest when surrounded by the hobby he loved. 

Those who knew Jesse will remember that while he was a large man in stature, he was truly a gentle giant. He had a heart of gold, a quiet kindness, and a willingness to help anyone who needed him. He loved Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, and if one of their songs came on, there was a good chance he'd be dancing with Becky—the love of his life, whom he loved "eight days a week." 

He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Pearl Lohr; sister-in-law Jessica Lohr, brothers-in-law Andy Lohr (Carla) and Mark Lohr, brother David Shifflett (Margie), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Willis "Bill" Lohr, and his brother-in-law, Allen Lohr. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Joni Helton (our angel), Jackie Williams, Alyssa Burr, Janet Frye, and Krystal Lauer, NP, and many close friends for the exceptional love, kindness, and care they showed Jesse and the entire family. They also thank Joanne, Trina, and Sherry from Hospice of the Trinity, and close neighbor and friend, Gilmer Lawson. 

Jesse's legacy isn't measured by the trophies he won, the businesses he built, or the races he ran. It lives on in the family he loved so deeply, the countless people he helped, the wisdom he passed on, and the example of hard work and kindness he set every day. Though his presence will be missed beyond words, his memory will continue to ride alongside all who knew and loved him. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 6 pm to 8 pm, at Batten Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11 am, at Batten Funeral Home, with interment to follow at 2190 Dunnes Shop Road. The family has invited everyone for a reception following interment at Nortonsville Church of God. 

The family has asked that everyone wear blue, Jesse's favorite color. They also ask everyone to drive their classic cars, rollbacks, and wreckers in honor of Jesse. 

In lieu of flowers, please make an online gift in memory of Jesse Sheckler to the Dementia Society of America at www.DementiaSociety.org/donate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Batten Funeral Home of Ruckersville, Virginia.