Thomas O. Shores

Thomas O. Shores (December 8, 1916 – October 2002) was an American politician and community leader who served as a member of the Elyria City Council in Elyria, Ohio, representing the 5th Ward from 1983 until his death. He also served as president of the Elyria City Council from 1995 onward and briefly as acting mayor in 2000, making him the first African American to hold the office of mayor in Elyria.

Early life and education Thomas Oliver Shores was born on December 8, 1916, on a farm in Belvidere, Tennessee, the grandson of formerly enslaved African Americans. He was employed for 45 years at the Elyria Foundry until his retirement in 1982.

Political career A lifelong Democrat, Shores entered local politics in the 1960s as a precinct committeeman for Elyria's 5th Ward, which comprised most of central and south Elyria. In December 1999, following the resignation of the incumbent mayor, Michal B. Keys, who has served for 20 consecutive years, Shores was named as acting mayor, becoming the first Black person to hold the office in Elyria's history.

Death and legacy Shores was married to Jennie Irene Shores The facility includes basketball courts, a splash pad, playground equipment, tennis courts, picnic shelters, and restrooms, and serves as a community center for events, classes, and emergency services.

Shores was a longtime member of Second Baptist Church in Elyria where he served as a Sunday School teacher, treasurer, deacon, past church clerk, and member of the Greater Church Fellowship.