LeRoy Byrd Major

LeRoy Byrd Major, beloved father and devoted servant of the Lord, passed away on February 16, 2024 at the age of 77. LeRoy was born on April 19, 1946 in Smithfield, Virginia to the late Charles H. Major Sr. and Ida K. Major. He is preceded in death by his brothers Charles H. Major Jr., George R. Major, Walter E. Major, Carl Major Sr., and Willie H. Major Sr.

He graduated in 1965 from Westside High School and afterwards attended Hampton University, finishing in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Physics. While earning his Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Illinois, he met Helen Ephraim, whom he married in 1972. From this union two sons were born: Lawrence & Hamilton.

After teaching briefly at Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA, he entered the field of engineering working for General Electric in Schenectady, NY and Malvern, PA for 17 years and then Silicon Power Corporation for eight more years.

Rediscovering a passion for teaching, he returned to academia and taught at the Center for Urban Theological Studies at Eastern College. After moving back to Virginia, he taught at Warwick High School and then Christopher Newport University until retirement.

Throughout his life, LeRoy’s faith in the Lord remained steadfast. While in Pennsylvania, Elder Major was a part of Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ under the stewardship of Bishop. A.D. Baxter and Pastor A.B. Baxter. There he filled various roles including teaching Sunday School, trustee, deacon, and various ministerial duties. Upon returning to Virginia, he continued his spiritual journey at Oyster Point Christian Center under Reverend Linda Shannon and then as a deacon at Soteria Life Center under Pastor Perry Moss and Dr. Belinda G. Moss.

LeRoy is survived by his sons, Lawrence B. Major and Hamilton R. Major of West Chester, PA; sisters Ida Hunt (Willard) of Smithfield, VA and Carleen Lane (Roy) of Surry, VA; sister-in-law Elsie Major of Smithfield, VA; as well as numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and cherished friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11am on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Mt. Tabor COGIC in Smithfield, Va.  Viewing will take place on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 3-6 at the Chapel.  Please keep the Major family in your prayers.