Morris "Payne" Major

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Morris “Payne” Major Sr., who left us on March 4, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on February 1, 1940, in New Roads, Louisiana, to Frank and Ulia Christoph-Major. Payne spent his life dedicated to family, his nation, his church and storytelling.

He is preceded in death by parents, Frank Major and Ulia Christoph-Major, his siblings, Edna Major, Dorothy Major, Ruby Major, William Major, Joseph Alonzo Major, Doris Major and two of his children - Willis A. Major and Cynthina Ann Major-Thomas.

Payne is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Bernice V. Major, their six (6) children - Willis A. Major (deceased), Cynthia A. Major-Thomas (deceased), Morris Major Jr., Rhonda Major-Miller, Eddie Bickham, and Denetrice Bickham-Williams; their seventeen (17) grandchildren – Eric Charles, Marsha Rhodes-Griffin, Anthoney Major (deceased), LaQuitha Major, Latoya Thomas, Aaron Major, Morissa Major, Jordan E. Major, Michael Bembo II, Hailee Brown, Rashad Morris, Marcus D. Bickham, Eddie L. Bickham, Kevin P. Bickham, David C. Bickham, Raheem H. Williams, and Anthony J. Williams; and their sixteen (16) great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Leo Major, and his sister, Barbara Ann Coker, numerous nephews, nieces, and other family members.

Payne was a proud member of the United States Navy, where his dedication and bravery earned him deep respect from his peers and superiors alike. He retired after 20 years of honorable and faithful service with the rank of Chief Boiler Technician (E-7). His military commendations include the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal with three (3) stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After his military career, he transitioned to a fulfilling role as an engineer-operator in the oil industry, where he continued to share his remarkable work ethic and passion for life with everyone around him. Known for his huge heart and generosity, he was also the keeper of the family history and often shared tales that brought laughter and wisdom to all who listened. His warmth and sincerity touched the lives of many of the youth in DeRidder, Louisiana and beyond as a mentor and sponsor of educational programs.

 Funeral services to honor Payne’s life will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026 with Visitation from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 at New Hope CME Church. The funeral will follow at 11:00am in the chapel of New Hope CME Church. Pastor Quincey Major will be officiating the services. Burial will follow the service at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery at 1:30 pm. A repast will be held at the hall of New Hope CME Church at 3:30 pm.

In this difficult time, we ask that you keep Morris's family in your thoughts and prayers. His impact on our lives will be felt forever, and he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.