John Major

John L. Major, at the age of 95, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, in Lewes, Delaware.

John was born in Ohio to the late John and Pauline Major. He was raised in Baltimore, Maryland and was the youngest of three children. He honorably served four years in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Virginia. After being discharged, he worked as a machinist at Bethlehem Steel Corporation in Baltimore. John married the late Helen Major (nee Fitz). John is survived by his daughter, Denise Noon, and granddaughter Elizabeth.

John had many interests and notable accomplishments during his lifetime. He was a gifted carpenter, mason, and home contractor. He was instrumental in the construction of many houses. He was also an excellent vegetarian cook and avid football fan. However, his true passion and legacy was being an accomplished artist. He began oil painting as a hobby in the 1960s. At that time, he was employed by Bethlehem Steel and worked the second shift. This enabled him to attend morning art classes.

By the late sixties, John began classes with the talented artist Bob Brown. Mr. Brown's expertise in landscaping and still life gave John the basic knowledge and confidence to pursue this area of painting. He studied with Mr. Brown for about two years.

By this time, John had found his passion for oil painting and had begun courses with another artist, David Turnbaugh. John studied with him for about a year before painting on his own. By the seventies, John was living in Lewes and painting full-time. He was a member of the Rehoboth Art League and had his paintings displayed throughout the area.

After 12 years of living in Delaware, his love for painting landscapes inspired him to move to the western part of Virginia where the beautiful countryside became his palette. Years later, he returned to Lewes and was actively painting until his passing at the age of 95.

Family will receive friends from 11:00-12:00 on Monday November 4, 2024 at Connelly Funeral Home of Dundalk with a service at 12 noon. Burial will take place following at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery.