Patsy Jo Major

Patsy Jo Major, age 92, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.

Pat touched the lives of hundreds of people. Some were one-on-one and far more were unknowingly impacted by her.

Pat was a BIG player in PTA all through her children’s lives. When a store called “Six-pack Express” wanted to open on the corner of Park Row and Cooper Right next door to Arlington High School? That would NOT go down on her watch. The law at the time (late 70s) stated that it was legal if it was more than 500’ from the entrance of “any school or place of worship.” That distance was measured from the front entrance to the street, down the street, to the front door of said business. She rallied the troops (Mickey Putnam and others), and they pursued it all the way to the Texas State Legislature and changed the law to be measured from the nearest property lines. It was quite a labor-intensive achievement, but it prevented such establishments from snuggling up next to schools and churches throughout the state.

Another achievement was in 1978. She secured 8.5 million dollars in funds to renovate Arlington High School and the other high schools in Arlington. AHS had not been updated in over 20 years and the wear and tear was evident. She rallied parents and held building walk-throughs to bring attention to the leaks, the fire hazards, and other concerns. She then lobbied the School Board and convinced them to address the need.

When Pat was 65 years old (1996), she started a business called The Brace Bus. She contracted with Dr. Wick Alexander in Arlington, and Drs. Johnson and Collins Orthodontics in Southlake, Bedford, and Coppell to check school-age children out of school and transport them to and from their Orthodontic appointments for working parents. She adored becoming part of these kids’ lives, and after every appointment, if the child wanted to, a stop at McDonald’s or Braum’s for lunch or dessert before returning to school was always a possibility. It was quite innovative, and it was all built out of a love of caring for others.

She never missed a game, a concert, or the need for a hug. She was sensitive, empathetic, a very loving Wife of 62 years, a mother, and friend to all. She is sorely missed.

Patsy is survived by her loving husband James Harvey Major; daughter Laura Lynn Major; sons James Douglas Major, Rodney Orion Major and his wife Laurie Jeanine Major as well as five grandchildren and their spouses and 20 great grandchildren.

There will be a visitation and viewing on Tuesday, September 19 from 6:00pm-9:00pm at Wade Family Funeral Home in Arlington, Texas. A graveside service and burial will be Thursday, September 21 at 11:00am at Moore Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you consider a living tribute to remember Patsy. Click here to plant a tree in Patsy’s honor.