James Jay Major

James Jay Major, age 80, of Pawnee, passed away Friday, January 5th, 2024, at 12:28 pm surrounded by his family at his home.

He was born November 29, 1943 in Decatur, the son of Joseph and Lillian (Gates) Major.

He married JoAnne Govaia on February 20, 1965 in Hillsboro.

For 34 years Jay was a proud coal miner at the Peabody #10 Mine and member of the UMWA.
He was a member of Mid-America Sport Parachute Club in Taylorville. He 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, Brady and Brock Watson of Raymond; Great-Grandchildren Landyn Tucker, Jalen Compston, and Ivy Jenkins; a sister Sherron Whitehead of Florida, also survives are many Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials in Jays honor may be left to the Alzheimer's Association.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 until 1:00 PM.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Hough Funeral Home in Raymond. 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.