Sam Cleveland Major

It is with profound sorrow, yet abiding faith in the resurrection, that the family of Sam Cleveland Major announces his peaceful transition to eternal rest. Sam departed this life at 4:00am on Sunday, June 28, 2026, with his devoted wife by his side.

Born on November 10, 1946, in Lanes, South Carolina, to the late Pearl Simmons Major and John Willie Major, Sam was a man defined by his integrity, hard work, and commitment to service. He laid a strong foundation for his future by graduating from Stanton High School on June 8, 1965, and furthered his education at Lincoln Business College, graduating on September 25, 1966.

Driven by a spirit of patriotism, Sam honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from November 3, 1966, to November 5, 1970, during which time he was deployed to serve in the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished 36-year career with the United States Postal Service in Jacksonville, Florida, where he worked as a skilled machine mechanic until his well-earned retirement in 2007.

Deeply invested in his community, Sam proudly served as a Mason and shared a close brotherhood with his fellow members in the Desert of Florida Shrine organization. As a member of Rabia Temple 8, Prince Hall Affiliated, Sam honorably served as Illustrious Potentate from 1994–1995. He was also an active member of the Motorized Unit, the Shriners as Mentors (SAM) program, and the Youth Department, where he faithfully mentored and inspired future generations. His unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and brotherhood leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to impact all who knew him.

A man of deep, unwavering faith, Sam was a member of Allen Chapel AME Church. He took great pride in his role as an usher, serving the congregation with a warm smile and a servant’s heart. In his leisure, Sam found joy in the beauty of travel and was widely known for his dedication to restoring and maintaining his cherished 1964 Ford truck—which once belonged to his father, affectionately calling it "Baby."

On February 21, 2026, Sam was united in holy matrimony to his wife, Geneva R. Major, whose love and companionship brought him immense happiness in his final chapter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pearl Simmons, John W. Major, and his great-granddaughter, Kamora Nichols.

Sam leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his legacy, his wife, Geneva R. Major; his daughter, Tanya Alexander (William); his siblings, Martha Ellen Smith, Jimmie Major (Cheryl), Raymond Major (Darleen), Lamar Major, Larry Major, and Sherrian Major; his grandchildren, Takerra "TK" Luster-Tolbert, Davielle "Babygirl" Luster, David "DJ" Luster, Sandra Luster, and Takerra "High Five" Luster; his great-grandchildren, Kamarie Tolbert, Biance Nichols, and Kaleb Nichols; his special childhood friends, Raymond Thomas, Andy Anderson, Tommy Mitchell, Jay Collins, Bobby Sasberry, Benny Clark, and Gerald Lomas; friends from the Mason Community, Russell and Delores Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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