Rev. Thomas J. Major

Reverend Thomas Joseph Major, Pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Dushore, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, after a remarkable thirty-three years of dedicated service to the Diocese of Scranton.

Born in Pittston, Pennsylvania, on April 4, 1964, he was the beloved son of the late Fred C. Major and Alma Jean Ardoline Major. Reverend Major pursued an education that not only equipped him for the priesthood but also demonstrated his commitment to caring for others. He graduated from Abington Heights High School in Clarks Summit, followed by a degree in nursing from NPW Geisinger Pittston School of Nursing. His quest for knowledge continued at the University of Scranton, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in May 1987. His theological training took place at St. Pius X Seminary in Dalton and Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University in New Jersey, culminating in his ordination as a priest on June 29, 1991, at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton by the Most Reverend James C. Timlin, late Bishop Emeritus of Scranton.

Throughout his ministry, Father Major's assignments included assistant pastor at Annunciation in Williamsport, followed by residences and pastoral roles in various parishes including Our Lady of Snows in Clarks Summit, Epiphany Parish in Sayre, and St. Aloysius in Wilkes Barre. In 2005, he received his first pastorate at St. Ann Parish in Bentley Creek, before being appointed to St. Ann Parish in Shohola the following year. His leadership extended further when he also took on St. John Neumann in Lords Valley in 2009. In November 2018, he began his service as pastor at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, where he continued to make an indelible impact on the community until his passing.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Father Major contributed as a chaplain for Penn College in Williamsport, Lycoming College, and the Clarks Summit State Hospital, touching many lives through his compassionate guidance and spiritual support.

Reverend Major is survived by his brother, Jeffery A. Major, and his wife Susan of Bayonne; New Jersey, along with his cherished nieces and nephews: Annessa Vlachos, Charles Major, and Chance VanSickle. He was preceded in death by his sister, Norina Van Sickle, and three brothers, Theodore, Charles, and Patrick Major.

A Concelebrated Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 5:00 P.M. at Basil's Church, 101 Churchill St., Dushore, PA 18614 with the Rev. Daniel F. Toomey, V.F., as principal celebrant.

There will be a dinner to follow at St. Basil's Hall.

As we remember Reverend Thomas J. Major, we honor a man whose life was dedicated to his faith, community, and family. His legacy of service and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.