Tre’ Major Obituary, UNITED STATES — Tre’ Major, a celebrated hairstylist, makeup artist, fashion stylist, creative director, and entrepreneur whose career spanned more than three decades, has died following a recent cancer diagnosis and brief illness, according to an announcement from his family.
Major built a remarkable career across beauty, fashion, music, television, film, and entertainment. His work as an artist, director, producer, educator, inventor, and mentor helped shape the visual identities of numerous entertainers and cultural figures. Through his creative vision and technical expertise, he contributed to memorable looks that became part of popular culture.
Throughout his career, Major worked with an extensive list of prominent artists, actors, musicians, and models, including Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, Lil’ Kim, Patti LaBelle, Halle Berry, Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina King, Taraji P. Henson, Brandy, Kelly Rowland, Nia Long, and Martin Lawrence. His work across multiple areas of entertainment established him as a versatile creative professional with a lasting influence on the industry.
One of Major’s notable contributions was his work as part of Aaliyah’s glam team. He collaborated closely with the late singer, helping create the understated yet distinctive beauty imagery associated with her public image. Years later, he continued to participate in efforts celebrating and preserving her legacy, including projects connected to the M•A•C Aaliyah collection and The A-Z of Aaliyah.
Major also played a significant role in shaping the beauty aesthetic associated with Mary J. Blige. As the singer’s longtime hairstylist, he contributed to bold and innovative hairstyles that accompanied her artistic evolution in the early 2000s. His work during that period formed part of a broader movement that helped define the visual culture of R&B and hip-hop.
His creative influence also extended to Lil’ Kim, including the artist’s celebrated La Bella Mafia era. Major helped develop looks that balanced a softer aesthetic with the fearless style that had established the rapper as a fashion icon. These collaborations reflected his ability to adapt his artistry to different personalities while maintaining each performer’s distinctive identity.
Beyond his work with celebrities, Major pursued entrepreneurship and education. He created Tre’ Major Hair Care and developed his own wig collection, extending his expertise into beauty products and hair innovation. He also dedicated time to mentoring and educating emerging beauty and creative professionals, sharing the knowledge he had gained throughout his decades in the industry.
Major’s family announced his passing with profound sadness. While further details about his age, date of death, and funeral or memorial arrangements were not included in the announcement, his professional legacy reflects a career built on creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Tre’ Major will be remembered for the images he helped create, the artists he worked alongside, and the knowledge he passed on to future generations. Condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives and careers were touched by his work.
