James R. "Jim" Shirey

James Richard “Jim” Shirey, 69, of Amherst, passed away late in the evening on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at the Cleveland Clinic in Avon. He was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania on July 18, 1957 to parents Richard John and Audrey Jean (nee: Knight). Jim began his supermodified racing career in 1976, embarking on a journey that would become a defining part of his life and leave a lasting mark on the world of short-track open-wheel racing. Throughout his driving career, Jim earned numerous accomplishments, including Rookie of the Year, Track Champion, and countless feature victories. His determination and competitive spirit that made him successful behind the wheel were equally evident in everything he did away from the track.

Alongside his late father, Dick Shirey, Jim built race cars from the ground up, developing a reputation as a talented engine builder, innovator, and true ambassador of short-track open-wheel racing. Racing was more than a career or hobby for Jim—it was a passion that became a cherished family legacy. After hanging up his helmet, he continued to support and encourage his sons and grandson, Gauge, as they carried that legacy forward. Through his knowledge, generosity, and willingness to help others, Jim touched the lives of countless people both on and off the track.

Outside of racing, Jim enjoyed his model trains, a love he inherited from his father, Dick. He took great pride in sharing his collection with family and friends, especially during the holidays when the trains became a special part of the Christmas decorations around the tree.

Jim’s faith was another constant throughout his life. His strong belief in God gave him strength through numerous surgeries and illnesses, and he prayed daily for his sons and family. They were his greatest source of love, strength, and purpose, and his family remained at the heart of everything he did.

Jim also worked as a millwright for Ford Motor Company, where he brought the same determination, mechanical ability, and dedication that characterized so much of his life.

Jim will be remembered not only for his accomplishments in racing, but for the knowledge he shared, the lives he touched, his unwavering faith, and, most importantly, his deep love for his family. His legacy will continue through the family he cherished and the racing community that he helped shape.

Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth “Beth” (nee: Badalamenti); his loving mother; sons, Eric, Kevin, and Danny (Rachel) Shirey; step-daughters, Heather Gifford, Faith Ostmann; sisters, Karen (Dennis) Zarrelli, Lisa (Rick) Sauer; grandchildren, Taylor, Gauge, Madelyn, Myra, Taylor, Paisley, and Maddy. He is preceded in death by his father.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 pm on Friday, October 2, 2026 at the Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road (at State Route 57) in Elyria. An additional visitation will be held the following day on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. The funeral procession will leave the funeral home promptly at 9:00 a.m. and stop at Lorain Raceway Park where Jim will take his final victory lap around the track. Burial will immediately follow at Camden Cemetery. Pastor Mike Haury will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made directly to the family.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.