Leonora Mary Major, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on Monday, March 24, 2025.
Born on May 1, 1927, in Philadelphia, Pa., she lived a life marked by resilience, love, and a sense of adventure.
In her teenage years, her family moved to Betterton, Md., where she worked at her family’s small hotel. It was there that she met her husband, Maxwell Perrin Major Jr. They married in 1948 and settled in Dundalk, Md., where they raised their four children. In 1972, with their three older children now adults, they moved to Virginia with their youngest, embarking on a new chapter together. They shared 30 years of marriage until Maxwell’s passing in 1978.
After his passing, Lea began a new chapter in her life, enrolling in nursing school and starting a career in healthcare that lasted until she was 75. Her commitment to caring for others made a lasting impact.
She was an avid traveler, amateur artist, and chauffeur to friends and family in need of a ride.
She was a longtime member of the Middlesex Lions Club, Lea enjoyed being involved in her community, even serving as the club’s “tail twister.” Her adventurous spirit also led her to travel through the Elder Hostel Program and taking a working cruise aboard a 61-foot sailboat from the Pacific Northwest. At 80, she and a close friend took a memorable cross-country road trip to California, earning the nickname “Thelma and Louise” from their friends.
For many years, Lea never hesitated to hop in the car and drive several hours to visit her children, often spending time with her grandchildren and taking them on trips to the beach, Florida, or California. She cherished these moments with her family and loved making memories with them.
Above all, Leonora was deeply proud of her children — Max (Claudette), Lynn (Steve), Mike (Barbara), and Matt (Pam) and often shared their accomplishments with those around her. Her love for her family was unwavering, and she was always eager to celebrate their milestones.
Leonora is survived by her four children and their spouses; eight grandchildren, Max IV, Meggie, Justin, Cory, Brian, Christopher, Brady, Ryan; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Maxwell Perrin Major Jr.; and granddaughters, Jessie and Jennifer.
Friends will be received at Faulkner Funeral Home in Saluda on Sunday, March 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. A funeral service is planned for 11 a.m. Monday, March 31 at Faulkner Funeral Home with interment immediately following at Harmony Grove Baptist Church.
Faulkner Funeral Homes, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel, Saluda is assisting the family.
