Mary Lynn Burr Major
Mary Lynn Burr Major of Orem, Utah passed away from breast cancer on January 8th, 2023. She was born on November 15th, 1957, in Sacramento, California. She was the second of fourteen children born to John William Burr and Yvonne Chamberlain Burr Christensen. Her efforts were crucial in raising the younger siblings. Her family moved frequently, and Mary attended a different school every year until starting 10th grade at Orem High School where she graduated in 1975. She then attended Brigham Young University to earn a degree in Humanities with a teaching minor in 1979. She then taught English and German at Farrer Jr. High in Provo until 1984. She was sealed to Robert Drew Major in the Provo, Utah Temple on June 18, 1981, and together they raised their four sons in Orem.
Mary enjoyed cooking, sewing, and especially doing jigsaw puzzles. She loved music and taught herself to play the piano and organ. She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in all the auxiliaries, but her favorite callings were Primary music chorister and visiting teacher. She was a voracious reader and strongly valued education. Mary encouraged and supported many others in their educational pursuits.
After growing up with 11 sisters, she was grateful for and found surprises by shifting to raising boys and was considered a “second mom” to many others, including nieces, nephews, neighborhood kids, and her children’s friends. Mary was perhaps best known for her genuine concern, kindness, and love for others. Her home became known for its large, well-stocked pantry, fridge, and freezer that was open to all. In her short time as a grandmother, she spoiled her grandchildren with thoughtful presents and encouraged them to develop their artistic and musical talents.
She is survived by her husband, Drew and their four sons Jonathan (Marti), Timothy (Charisse), Benjamin (Erin), and Samuel (Holli), four grandchildren, and 13 siblings. She is preceded in death by both her parents, stepfather “Buckley” Christensen, and father-in-law “Duke” Major.
The family would like to express thanks to the numerous caregivers and nurses who helped care for her 24/7 over the past several years, especially Mel, Sadra, Hariella, and Jeanne.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 14 at 11:00 am in the Sunset Heights 6th Ward Chapel located at 500 South 600 West in Orem. Viewings will be held on Friday evening from 6-8 at Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary, 495 S State St. Orem, and at the church from 9-10:30 am Saturday prior to the service. Burial will be in the Orem City Cemetery the following Tuesday. Condolences may be expressed to the family at SundbergOlpinMortuary.com.