Thomas Middlebrook

Thomas “Thom” Middlebrook passed away on July 13, 2026, in Durham, North Carolina, at the age of 68. He was surrounded by loved ones near his home in Chapel Hill.

Over a lifetime of creative exploration, Thom brought world-class wit and keen insight to every medium he pursued, including photography, writing, music, comedy, creative direction, and arts advocacy.

Born in Hamilton, Ohio, to Bill and Irene Middlebrook, Thom earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture and photography from the Art Academy of Cincinnati and a Master of Fine Arts in photography and performance from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

For nearly three decades, he was actively involved with the American Friends of Versailles, helping support restoration projects at the Palace of Versailles, including the major reconstruction of the historic Bosquet des Trois Fontaines gardens. He viewed the organization's work as a powerful example of what could be achieved when the generosity of donors and the skill of artisans came together in service of preserving beauty and history. In 2023, he wrote and designed a commemorative book marking the organization's 25th anniversary.

In St. Paul, Minnesota, Thom created and hosted one of the city’s most beloved music events, the Real-Phonic Radio Hour. The variety show featured musicians and writers from across the country and transformed the James J. Hill Reference Library, with its soaring Greek columns, marble floors, and 30-foot ceilings, into an intimate 200-seat concert hall where, once a month, artists and audiences shared an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling. Over four years, the Real-Phonic Radio Hour welcomed 74 acts and nearly 300 musicians to its stage.

Of all Thom’s creative pursuits, none was more enduring than photography. Patient and deliberate behind the lens, he shared countless stories through his photographs, celebrating friends, family, and strangers alike. If you traveled with him, you were likely to find him twenty paces behind, pausing to capture one more image, one more story, from the places he loved: the streets and architecture of New Orleans, Paris, Rome, and Hope Town in the Bahamas; the coast of North Carolina; or the mountains of Montana. His photographs reflect the same curiosity and appreciation for beauty that he brought to every aspect of life.

Though Thom was fond of quoting Samuel Beckett’s darkest observations about the absurdity of life, he met that absurdity with extraordinary humor, kindness, and an unfailing enthusiasm for whatever might come next. His infectious laughter, generous encouragement, and ability to make everyone feel welcome will be remembered by all who met him.

He is survived by his life partner, Madge Duffey, and his daughter, Rosemary Middlebrook. He was preceded in death by his brother, Eric "Chip" Middlebrook.

There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Summit Brewing, 910 Montreal Circle, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Art Academy of Cincinnati at https://www.artacademy.edu/give/ or by mail: Art Academy of Cincinnati, Attn: Institutional Advancement, 1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.