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Paul Sorrentino Obituary
September 3, 1946 - June 10, 2025
Paul Sorrentino, of Blacksburg, Va., passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025. Dr. Sorrentino served as a Professor of English at Virginia Tech and as Co-Chair of the English Department for many years. He also served as a U.S. Army Captain in Alaska prior to his graduate studies.
Professor Sorrentino was a noted expert in American Literature. His biography, entitled STEPHEN CRANE: A LIFE OF FIRE, broke new ground, and is seen by many as the most in-depth work on Crane. In addition, Professor Sorrentino was the author of numerous books and articles. He was a highly regarded teacher, much beloved by his students, many of who continued to communicate with him after their graduation.
Paul earned both a B.A. and Ph.D. from Penn State University. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where he served as a lector.
He was a member of the International Magicians Society. Paul enjoyed performing magic professionally, enchanting many children and adults at their events. He and magician friends enjoyed yearly magic conferences in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
He loved to cook and share this talent with family and friends.
Paul received Gugenheim awards for his work on Crane.
He is survived by his wife Margaret C. Sorrentino; step-daughters Elizabeth Webb, Sophia More; and step-grandson, Dasan Bolanos.
Known for his generosity of spirit and kind, loving nature, he will be greatly missed.
A service will be held at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Blacksburg, Va., on Saturday, July 12th at 11 a.m., followed by a reception.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Sorrentino
Sponsored by McCoy Funeral Home - Blacksburg.
4 Entries
Al, Ann, Adam and Chris Sorrentino
July 14, 2025
Paul was a beloved member of our family. We are so happy that we were able to visit with him these past couple of years. It was always a pleasure to be around Paul. Paul never lost his sharp mind or his warm personality and was always very hospitable. We were able to share family memories and learn of others during these visits. Our sincere condolences to Peg and family for their loss.
We appreciate, so very much, Peg´s help in arranging our "get-togethers."
Evelyn Raines
June 30, 2025
I´m so sorry to learn about Paul´s passing.
I had so much respect for him. He was a dear friend. Paul will be surely missed.
Cheyenne
June 29, 2025
Paul was such a nice guy! He received therapy at Friendship and was super excited to go back home. I enjoyed having him on the unit!
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