Fred Braxton Shanks

Fred Braxton Shanks, Jr. left this world for his Heavenly Home on Sunday, July 6, 2025. He was born on September 16, 1945 to the late Fred B. Shanks, Sr. and Mary Ruth Scaggs Shanks of Botetourt County. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Dawn Shanks Letchford. He was a veteran of the United States Army in the Vietnam Era and was stationed in Germany.

He worked for C & P Telephone Co and for AT&T for 18 ½ years. He and his wife Mary co-owned Com-Tech Enterprises (Affordable Telephone Services) from which he retired after many years working in Roanoke and SW Virginia.

He loved working on cars, auto cross racing, drag racing, and cowboy fast draw. He was a member of Hanging Rock Street Rod Club and Commonwealth Corvette Club. He also enjoyed collecting and customizing Hot Wheel cars as a hobby.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Mary Jane McElwee Shanks; his children, Tracey Shanks Smith (Andrew Smith) and daughter Cassidy Smith. His son, Ray Shanks (Emily) and children Hannah, Laurel, and Troy, Autumn Shanks and son Waylon. His step-daughter, Tammy Cauley Monroe (James) and children, Jamie Monroe (DVM Kristie Monroe) and son Raylin. Dakota Shockley (Jacob) and children, Emmalynn and Thomas. His step-son, Jeffrey Cauley and son, Stephen Snyder. Also, his grandchildren, Brittany, Amanda, Chelsea Letchford; and his four great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Mill Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, 11475 Lee Hwy, Rt 11, Fincastle, VA) with Rev. James Monroe officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the U.S. Army. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory.