Michael J. Naughton

Michael J. Naughton passed away peacefully on January 11, 2011. Mike was born December 2, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois to Hugh and Margaret (Durkin) Naughton. Mike is survived by his wife of over 51 years, Mary Lou Naughton and their daughter Michele Naughton. Mike also leaves behind four siblings, Hugh Naughton, his wife Jessie; Bob Naughton, his wife Ellen; John Naughton, his wife Raydeen; and Marguerite (Naughton) Anderson. Mike was also pre-deceased by his older sister, Mary Kay Johnson, and her husband Jack. Mike was blessed with many nephews and nieces as well as grandnephews and grandnieces

Mike met the love of his life, Mary Lou Gorman in 1965 and they were married on July 26, 1969, a week after the historic moon landing. They were able to travel the world during Mike’s tenure with the Navy, living in places like San Diego, Charleston, Virginia Beach and visiting places like Japan. During their courtship and early marriage, Mike was in the Navy Enlisted Scientific Education Program (NESEP) while in college. After graduation, Mike earned both his silver and gold dolphins with the US Navy Submarine Service and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Mike and Mary Lou welcomed their daughter into the world in Omaha, Nebraska (of all places) while Mike was serving a joint command with the US Air Force. He retired from duty in 1988 and found work in the DC area as a government contractor working with the Navy until his second retirement in 2012. Mike would often joke after 22 years with the Navy he decided to not make a career of it and retire. In 2017, Mike was inducted into the Holland Club, which is an exclusive group within the US Submarine Veterans organization, where the core requirement for eligibility is the designation “qualified in submarines” for a minimum of fifty years.

Mike always wanted to make sure that everyone felt comfortable, included, and happy when they were with him. He was always at the center of the party, meeting new people, kissing the ladies and joking with the men. Mike gave the definition of bear hugs. He will be remembered for his big presence – both physically and the size of his heart.

Mike would often sign off his emails and phone calls with these quotes: Have a great day …and an even better one tomorrow! Till next time…Fair winds & following seas!

A Memorial Service will be held at St Rose of Lima Parish for a limited number of attendees due to current restrictions. We thank you for your understanding during these difficult times. The service will be livestreamed. Please visit strose-parish.org

and click on the "Live Stream" link. The service will start at 10:50am Friday, January 15.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to theParkinson's Foundation of the National Capital Area