Paul Sorrentino, of Blacksburg, passed away peacefully 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 whom 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, stepdaughters 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 on Saturday, July 12 at 11 a.m., followed by a reception.
