Barbara Jean (Conway) Major

Barbara Jean (Conway) Major, 77, of Hillsboro, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Springfield, IL. She was born on November 15, 1948, in Hillsboro, the daughter of James and Gretchen (Lipe) Conway.

A 1966 graduate of Hillsboro High School, Barb married Charles William “Bill” Major on June 12, 1966, in Hillsboro. Together, Barb and Bill co-owned several local businesses over the years, including Major Family Shoes & Clothing, Major Motors of Hillsboro, and Litchfield Chrysler Center, Inc.

Barb 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 Bill, 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 Bill and the boys. Above all, Barb’s greatest joy was time spent with her family; nothing mattered more to her than being together.

She 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, IL; and four grandchildren, Lindsey Major, Haley Major, Gunnar Major, and Harper Major.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Gretchen LeAnne Major.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church of Hillsboro, with Mark Noyes officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, at the church.

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.