Joseph Oliver "Joe" Major, Jr.
1945 - 2025
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Joseph Oliver “Joe” Major, Jr., a native of New Roads, LA, and a longtime resident of Fordoche, LA, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 80. Joe had a long career as a nationally acclaimed chef and restaurant owner, most notably as the founder of Joe’s “Dreyfus Store” Restaurant in Livonia, LA, which he and his wife Diane opened in 1988.
Growing up on the banks of the False River, Joe had happy memories of fishing, hunting, playing with his siblings, cousins, and friends, and learning how to cook at the age of five at the knees of his parents.
Joe was a devoted husband, son, brother and uncle. He was a graduate of Catholic High School in New Roads, LA, and attended LSU in Baton Rouge from 1963-1966. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1966-1972. His culinary career included the Louisiana Purchase Restaurant in Metairie, LA (which he co-founded with his brother John and friend, the late Tommy Donham), and the Petroleum Club in New Orleans. Tiring of big city life, Joe and Diane moved to Fordoche, LA, and opened the Red Barn Café in Livonia in 1987, followed by the opening of Joe’s “Dreyfus Store” Restaurant in 1988.
His greatest passions in life were cooking for family, friends, customers, and the guys at the hunting club, fishing in Grand Isle, attending horse races, his beloved pets and enjoying the simple country life in Fordoche. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unique sense of humor. He was a mentor to many young people, particularly in the restaurant business.
He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Diane Calbert Major; brother, John Major (Louise); sister, Gail Major; sister, Rita Major; brother, David Major (Fran); beloved nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and a special family friend, Johanna Trees Ellison.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Oliver Major, Sr; mother, Rita Loup Major; brother, Robert Major; and infant sister, Giselle Major.
The family extends their sincere thanks to Dr. Donald Doucet, Dr. Ashley Bordelon, Amy Picard and the staff of Fresenius Dialysis Center, Pointe Coupee Hospice, Pointe Coupee Homebound Health and Pointe Coupee General Hospital.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, checks may be made payable to LSU Foundation, 3796 Nicholson Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70802.