William Peter Major

William “Bill” Peter Major, 77, of Moberly, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, with his love, Lisa, by his side.

Bill was born in St. Louis. Missouri, and was adopted by Howard P. Major and Thelma (Whisenand) Major. He shared with pride that he insisted his older siblings be adopted alongside him, a reflection of the compassion and loyalty that defined his life.

He attended Palmyra High School, where he excelled on the football field as a talented halfback. In 1969, Bill was drafted into the United States Army and honorably served his country during the Vietnam War until the conflict came to an end. Following his military service, he began a career with Norfolk Southern Railroad, where he worked for 40 years on a track replacement crew before retiring.

Bill was of the Christian faith and generously gave of his time by volunteering to place flags at Oakland Cemetery in honor of those who served. He was generous to a fault and will be remembered for his kind heart, selfless spirit, and willingness to help those in need. In his free time, he enjoyed playing bingo, visiting the riverboat casinos, and spending time with those he loved.

Bill treasured the friendships he made throughout his life and remained close to many of his classmates over the years, especially his lifelong friend, Kent Coleman. He wanted to express his heartfelt appreciation to his many friends and coworkers at Norfolk Southern Railroad for their years of friendship and support. He also wished to thank the staff and patrons of VFW Post 2654 Bingo in Moberly, especially Elaine Avery, whose thoughtful cards and kindness meant so much to him.

Bill is survived by his beloved significant other, Lisa “Gunn” Hendren of Moberly; his son, Travis William Major of Galveston, Texas; his daughter Sarah Ann McGriff of Quincy, Illinois; his grandchildren, Victoria, Raquell, Hanna, Jacob, Angelique, Gabrielle, and Jordan; his great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his late wife Rosalinda's brother and sister in law, Rick and Loretta Allbright. 

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Howard P. Major and Thelma Major; his wife, Rosalinda (Bennington) Major; his brother, Joe Major; and his sister, Ann (Major) Lehenbauer.

A visitation for Bill will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, beginning at 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Pathway Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411, Union Ave, Moberly, MO, followed by burial at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, MO, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Bills honor to the Missouri Veterans Home, 1 Veterans Dr, Mexico, MO, 65265

Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.