James “Jay” Major, 80, of Pawnee, died Friday, Jan. 5, 2024 at 12:28 p.m. surrounded by his family at his home.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 14 at Hough Funeral Home in Raymond, and funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsboro. Mark Noyes will officiate. The family is being assisted by Hough Funeral Home in Raymond with arrangements.
Mr. Major was born Nov. 29, 1943 in Decatur, the son of Joseph and Lillian Gates Major. He married JoAnne Govaia on Feb. 20, 1965 in Hillsboro, and she survives.
For 34 years he was a proud coal miner at Peabody #10 Mine and member of the UMWA. He was a member of Mid-America Sport Parachute Club in Taylorville. Mr. Major enjoyed short wave radio, vintage cars and helping his son in law.
Besides his wife he is survived by his three daughters Julie (Dave) Watson of Raymond, Jill Weber of Pawnee and Joelle Major of Springfield; grandchildren Sydney (Devin) Jenkins of Raymond, Justina (companion Chase Compston) Major of Springfield and Brady and Brock Watson of Raymond; great-grandchildren Landyn Tucker, Jalen Compston and Ivy Jenkins; a sister Sherron Whitehead of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials in Jays honor may be left to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Condolences may be left online at www.houghfuneralhome.com
