Obituary of Michael Scarborough

Michael Scarborough passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2026. He was 73. Born in Portsmouth, VA, to a Naval aviator and an elementary school teacher, Michael successfully embarked upon three distinct careers. Thanks to his father's naval career, Michael spent a portion of his childhood in Japan, where he developed a love for all things Japanese. Back in the States, he attended Louisiana State University and the Conservatory of Music in Kansas City. He sang opera internationally for 25 years before making his Carnegie Hall debut in March of 2000 and then leaving the stage behind for a career in the decorative arts as a wood and lacquerware artist. This portion of his artistic life was most heavily influenced by his love of Japanese culture. Upon retirement from the decorative arts, Michael became a beloved docent at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the most fulfilling of his careers. Michael is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Diane Bounds Scarborough, brother William E. Scarborough, Jr., sister Kathryn Scarborough Noyes, 5 nephews, 3 grand-nephews, and 1 grand-niece. Visitation will be held at Edward D. Lynch Funeral Home, 43-07 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside, NY 11104, on Saturday, March 14th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, followed immediately by a memorial service in the Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Blood Cancer United, 1201 15th Street N.W., Suite 410, Washington, D.C. 20005, (800) 955-4572. Michael Scarborough passed away peacefully at home on