Dr. Michael V. Namorato Jr., 78, passed away on February 7, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his loved ones.
The visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church (403 University Ave, Oxford, Mississippi 38655). The memorial mass will immediately follow on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 3:00 pm, also at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.
Dr. Namorato was born on September 4, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Michael Francis and Filomena DiGruccio Namorato.
Born with a deep intellectual curiosity, Dr. Namorato began his academic journey at Iona College before earning his Ph.D. at Michigan State University. In 1973, he moved to Oxford, Mississippi, where he joined the faculty at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and began a remarkable teaching career that spanned four decades. Over 40 years, Dr. Namorato inspired and mentored thousands of students, sharing his love of history and his passion for learning.
Dr. Namorato’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. A prolific author, he enriched his field with numerous books. He taught history, and his classes were renowned for their depth, warmth, and wit. He was deeply committed to helping others, always offering support to students and colleagues in times of need.
Dr. Namorato’s devotion to his Catholic faith was evident in all aspects of his life. He taught many classes on various elements of the Catholic faith at his dearly loved church, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, guiding young people and adults alike in their journeys of faith.
Those who knew Dr. Namorato remember his boundless curiosity and joy for life. He found peace in reading, and music was his constant companion—especially when he played his beloved guitar or banjo. Some of his happiest moments were spent playing guitar with his son and attending Ole Miss baseball games with his daughter and grandson, creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts.
Dr. Michael Namorato will be remembered for his generosity, his unwavering faith, and his profound impact on the lives of countless students and friends. His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family would also like to express their gratitude to Baptist Hospice and the staff. They are forever thankful for the care that was given to Dr. Namorato by the nurses and caregivers.
He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Fahey Namorato of Oxford, MS; his daughter, Rachel Phillips (Chris) of Oxford; his son, Michael John Namorato (Rachel) of Oxford; his grandson, John Robert Phillips of Oxford; his brother, Carmine Namorato (Angela) of Long Island, NY; his two sister-in-laws, Linda Fahey of Oxford and Madeline Namorato of Brooklyn, NY; and a host of extended family members.
Dr. Namorato is preceded in death by his parents, Michael Francis and Filomena DiGruccio Namorato; his sister, Rose Marie Namorato; his brother, Cono Namorato; and his sisters, Raffella Daniele and Palmina Hasselberger.
Instead of flowers, contributions can be given in memory of Dr. Namorato to the Benevolent Fund at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, which serves the poor and needy in the Oxford area. Click on the following link to be taken to the online giving page https://tinyurl.com/45ra7kwp .
The staff at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford is honored to serve the family during this challenging time. Condolences may be expressed online on his Tribute wall at www.colemanfuneralhomeox.com
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