Brian Carl Shahda

1964 - 2025

Brian Carl Shahda

June 11, 1964 - October 7, 2025

Brian Carl Shahda passed away in his home on October 7, 2025, with his adopted dog, Rex, by his side. He was 61 years old. Born in Richmond, VA, he attended J.R. Tucker High School and lived most of his life in the city. Kind, gentle, smart, intuitive, and brave, he is dearly loved and will be forever missed.

He is survived by his son, Joshua P. Aultman (Pamela); grandson, JP Aultman; sister, Roberta Shahda Mandrekas (John); former brother-in-law, Thomas O. Cochran; his aunt, Virginia S. Puryear and uncle, William C. Echard, and seven cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Daphne Shahda Cochran; his parents, Robert (Bob) Shahda and Judith Goff; his grandparents, and three uncles.

From an early age, Brian loved cars, beginning with his impressive collection of Matchbox Cars. He would later become an expert mechanic, where he received formal training on General Motors' EV1, inspiring him to advocate for the future of electric vehicles.

Brian had an unusual talent very few people knew about: with astounding accuracy, he could mimic the voice of anyone, male or female. He had a dry sense of humor and liked to draw cartoons. He appreciated classical music, particularly opera, and as a student, practiced the cello. He enjoyed old variety shows such as Jack Benny and the BBC's Sherlock Holmes series. He kept his cool in emergencies and was resourceful, once retrieving a set of car keys dropped in a lake by securing a strong magnet onto a pole before methodically scanning the water.

He had strong faith and was by nature a very private person. He cared deeply about those in need, helping when and where he could. Brian was the person to assist a stranded motorist. Once in a serious situation, he pulled a young girl from the rear seat of a burning car on interstate I-64; he was the friend to take on the heavy lifting for a move, or transport someone for an appointment. He checked-in on neighbors, volunteered for "Meals on Wheels," and the Greek Festival at Saints Constantine and Helen Cathedral. Brian lived simply and quietly, often surprising his family and friends with yummy treats or an unexpected gift.

He loved all animals but had an affinity for dogs. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, he adopted puppies rescued from the flood waters. "Dixie and Trixie" went on to live their best life for the next 16 years, becoming regulars at Barker Field Dog Park, where Brian usually arrived at sunrise, chatting with fellow dog lovers over a cup of coffee.

Family will receive friends on Friday, October 24, between 10 to 11 a.m. at Bliley's central location, 3801 Augusta Ave, where a prayer service will follow visitation.

A graveside service will take place the following day on Saturday, October 25, at 11 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery, 3101 Nine Mile Rd.