Barbara Jean (Conway) Major, 77, of Hillsboro, died on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, in Springfield.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at First Presbyterian Church of Hillsboro, with Mark Noyes officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the church.
Mrs. Major was born on Nov. 15, 1948, in Hillsboro, the daughter of James and Gretchen (Lipe) Conway. A 1966 graduate of Hillsboro High School, she married Charles William “Bill” Major on June 12, 1966, in Hillsboro. Together, the couple co-owned several local businesses over the years, including Major Family Shoes and Clothing, Major Motors of Hillsboro and Litchfield Chrysler Center, Inc.
Mrs. Major was an avid reader who usually had a book within arm’s reach. She treasured quiet afternoons working puzzles and lively evenings playing cards with the family and friends around the kitchen table. She loved traveling with her husband, from short getaways to longer trips, many of which resulted in favorite—and sometimes hilarious— family stories. Camping and fishing were some of her happiest times, especially when they meant early mornings by the water and long days outside with Mr. Major and the boys. Above all, Mrs. Major’s greatest joy was time spent with her family; nothing mattered more to her than being together.
Mrs. Major is survived by her husband, Bill Major of Hillsboro; four sons, Steve (Dawn) Major of Hillsboro, Brian (Kimberly) Major of Vandalia, Michael (Erica) Major of The Woodlands, TX, and John Major of Hillsboro; two siblings, James C. (Jill) Conway of Hillsboro and Connie (Vincent) Lopinot of Swansea; and four grandchildren, Lindsey Major, Haley Major, Gunnar Major and Harper Major.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her daughter, Gretchen LeAnne Major.
Memorials may be given at the visitation or service, mailed to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 230, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481, or made online at www.curealz.org. Hough-Dean Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. To leave an online condolence or for directions, please visit www.houghfuneralhome.com.
