Jean Ryker Major

On March 19, 2021 Jean Major of Chesapeake City, MD, died at the age of 86. Jean spent her youth in various parts of the South, attending Catholic schools and learning to love music from her mother and plants from her father. After her parents settled in Delaware, Jean attended the University of Delaware, where she met her husband, Joe, and graduated with a B.S. in Publications from Simmons College.

Jean and Joe purchased a farm south of Chesapeake City in the late 50’s, raising two daughters, as well as cats, dogs, horses, cows, and a huge garden. Countless students will fondly recall her as a caring yet no-nonsense substitute teacher for many years. Others will remember her guidance as a 4-H Club leader. Jean was a devoted member of Augustine Parish, playing the organ and leading the choir, as well as serving on the vestry and St. Monica’s Guild. Jean enjoyed singing with the Cecil County Choral Society as a member since 1981 and ballroom dancing with Joe at Crystal Ballroom.

Jean will long be remembered for her outgoing friendliness, generous sharing of garden produce and advice, and inventive practicality. She and Joe, who died in 2013, loved their farm and have granted agricultural easements to the State in order to preserve the agricultural character of the area for future generations.

Jean is survived by her two daughters and their husbands, four grandchildren, and a brother.

A memorial service will be held at the farm on May 22; contact the family for details. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made payable to “Augustine Parish” and sent in care of R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A., P. O. Box 248, Rising Sun, MD 21911.