Tomlin J. Paul

Try to be better than your previous self

Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Dr. Tomlin J. Paul — a devoted husband, father, brother, physician, educator, and leader — whose life was marked by purpose, humility, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Dr. Paul passed away on March 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that stretches far beyond titles and achievements, reaching deeply into the lives and hearts of all who knew him across Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Rwanda, and the wider world.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Deborah; his sons, Joshua, Tabeal, Jared, and Andrew; his stepson, Nathaneel; his brothers, Justin, Oxley, and Vernon; his sisters, Mable, Omris, Yullie, and Jennis; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, colleagues, and students whose lives he profoundly touched.

To many, Dr. Paul was a distinguished academic and physician. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he served with excellence at The University of the West Indies, Mona, where he rose from Lecturer to Deputy Principal. He also served as Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences and contributed internationally through his work in Rwanda at the University of Global Health Equity, where he served in many roles to include Dean, Research and Innovation. His leadership, scholarship, and advocacy for student success and social accountability helped shape the future of medical education regionally and globally. 

Yet beyond his professional accomplishments, those closest to him knew a different kind of greatness — one found in quiet moments, simple traditions, and the love he gave so freely. Dr. Paul will be remembered as a man of deep integrity, gentle strength, and profound humility. He was a listener, a mentor, a builder of people, and a calm voice in moments of uncertainty. He had a rare ability to make others feel seen, heard, and capable of more.

His life reminds us that true legacy is not only measured in accomplishments, but in the lives we shape, the love we give, and the moments we create.

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Memory wall

March 28, 2026

The Mixed Methods International Research Association – Caribbean Chapter (MMIRA-CC) expresses its profound sorrow at the passing of Dr. Tomlin Paul on Monday, March 9, 2026, a respected physician, scholar, academic leader, and valued supporter and member of our community.

Dr. Paul made important contributions to the growth and development of the Chapter. He served as a Past Director of MMIRA-CC, providing guidance and support during its formative years. His commitment to advancing mixed methods research in the Caribbean was also reflected in his involvement with the Caribbean Journal of Mixed Methods Research, where he served on the Editorial Advisory Board and supported the growth of this regional scholarly platform.

Beyond his contributions to the Chapter, Dr. Paul was widely recognized for his distinguished academic leadership at The University of the West Indies, Mona. During his career, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences and later as Deputy Principal, roles in which he demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, research development, and the strengthening of higher education in the Caribbean.

Dr. Paul was known for his collegiality, kindness, thoughtful insights, and dedication to scholarship. His willingness to support initiatives that advanced research and academic collaboration enriched the work of the Chapter and the broader scholarly community.

The Board of Directors, Executive, and Members of MMIRA-CC honour Dr. Tomlin Paul’s service and lasting contributions. His leadership and commitment to scholarship have left a meaningful legacy that will continue to inspire researchers and scholars across the Caribbean.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and loved ones during this time of loss. His contributions will be remembered with deep appreciation and respect.

MMIRA-CC

March 27, 2026

We remember Dr. Tomlin Paul as a gentle soul and a pillar of our community—West Road, where so many of us lived and played.

Matthew 18:3 reminds us to embrace childlike innocence. To my friends, the Paul brothers, and all who knew him: do we truly feel like adults?

It feels like just yesterday we ran and played at the park, carefree. Those memories linger, as if they are always just around the corner. Let us hold on to that youth, and stay connected to one another, and to the times when we went home to our parents after long days of play—when all was well, just around the corner, just yesterday.

Dr. Paul gave me a moment of grace in my childhood when I expected harshness for something I had done—something that has stayed with me ever since.

To the Paul family, friends, and all who mourn, may God bring comfort in this time.

Xavier Hall

March 27, 2026

Tomlin entered my life at a critical juncture. He was a great listener, warm and intuitive. We would end our long days of training with more hours of conversation: processing what we had learnt sharing doubts and figuring ourselves out. I loved that he was on his own journey of self discovery and that he went all in. He shared his vulnerabilities and his vast knowledge, his wisdom and his sense of fun. It was such a joy meeting him - he was such an ally.

Rest well Tomlin and thank you for all the happy moments.

Ella Strickland

March 24, 2026

Rest well Dr Paul .
You were a great inspiration and a true leader. I always enjoyed our talks and visit to your office as DP. Always willing to solve any problem and find solutions. The UWI has truly been blessed having your leadership . Sleep in peace . Shavon Hutchison

Shavon Hutchinson

March 23, 2026

Dr. Paul was truly an inspiration to all who he encountered. A quiet giant, he was a true gentleman who always considered the needs of others. In my time working alongside him I learnt a lot about interpersonal relationships and using diplomacy to solve conflicts. He was slow to react but thorough in his decisions. He will be truly missed. The Caribbean, the UWI and the medical fraternity has lost a true gem. Sleep well Dr. Paul 🙌🏾. I pray your family will find comfort in knowing that you were/are well loved!

Mellisa G Walker

March 23, 2026

Condolences to the family of this great human, Dr. Tomlin Paul. Dr. Paul epitomizes the best of humanity. From exchanges relating to co-supervision of my first doctoral student at The UWI, Mona to sitting beside me at my inaugural professorial lecture our engaging conversations and joyful embraces will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace.
Carmel Roofe

Carmel Roofe

March 23, 2026

Today I send deep and heartfelt condolences to the entire family of my dear cousin Dr. Tomlin Paul. To his surviving siblings, his dear wife Deborah and his beautiful sons, our hearts are broken with yours. Tomlin’s legacy will always be alive by all the lives he’s touched. Although I had not seen him in decades, our lives as children walking to school together in Morne Diable reminds me of our rich childhood. Tomlin’s letters of support as we both went through medical training kept me pressing on in the worst of times. Rest well in heaven my cousin, my friend, my colleague. You are truly one of the most brilliant minds I have ever known. May the wonderful memories you’ve created with your family help to sustain them. God brought you home knowing your devotion to humanity but ready for you in the divine realm. Rest well my cousin. Dr. Leera Briceno

Leera Briceno-Setalsingh

March 23, 2026

Even though our time communicating and working together was brief, you opened a door for me within the ODP that changed the course of my life. I will never take that opportunity for granted. Your kindness, leadership, and quiet encouragement have helped shape me into a better individual—both in my work and in my journey through life.

Thank you, Sir Paul, for believing in me, for seeing potential where I could not yet see it myself, and for the impact you made in the lives of so many. Your legacy will forever live on in the people you uplifted, the paths you cleared, and the wisdom you left behind.

May your soul rest in peaceful and eternal light.

Best wishes,
Shakira

Shakira Caine

March 23, 2026

An extraordinary human being, gone too soon - so bright a light.
Blessed to be one of so many who knew him and who celebrates his life. 

My heart goes out to his family and colleagues.
We will continue to take inspiration from our time together. It was a gift.
And it is my fervent wish to see that his legacy, his vision, and his example will live on to inspire and empower others.
There are so many photos I could include, but here are a few that embody his joy, humor, and vibrance during his time within The Human Element Practitioner Community.

Lorin Gold

March 23, 2026

Sending my deepest condolences to Tomlin’s family and loved ones. I had the privilege of working with him and learning from him at UGHE in 2021-2022, and I am truly grateful for that time together. Our early clinical division team at UGHE was deeply shaped by his wisdom and vision and his presence left a lasting impact, up to this day.

I will remember Tomlin as a deeply kind, humble, and compassionate physician, teacher, and leader. He cared genuinely, complained very little and made people feel seen and supported. He was not only an excellent clinician and educator, but also a mentor and role model whose influence shaped many lives. His exemplary professionalism, kindness, and quiet gentleness in every interaction will always be remembered. His legacy, one of service, integrity, and humanity, will continue to live on through all those he touched.

May his family and friends find comfort in the many lives he uplifted, the legacy he leaves behind, and the deep respect and affection so many carry for him.

Sending much love,

Natalie

Natalie McCall

March 23, 2026

Dr. Paul was always about student success and well-being. He did all he could to ensure students achieve success. Sincere condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends.

Sharon Hamilton

March 23, 2026

Dr. Tomlin Paul was a gentleman, God's amazing gift to The UWI, and to the world. I offer deepest condolences to his wife, Deborah, children and other family members, colleagues and friends. I am profoundly saddened by your passing Dr Tomlin, Dr. Paul. You were a great and cherished friend and colleague. Even with your humble, quiet persona, you were a defender of mankind. I celebrate your life and will always remember you - a champion for decency and integrity. Thank God for having shared you with us. Your legacy will live on through me and many others who honour and respect mankind. You're being laid to rest on my birthday. I'm reassured, as we communicated about your pain management strategy in January 2026, not knowing that you would have gone to sleep, forever. You are now painfree. Sleep on my friend. God will take care of your family. May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Sandra Powell-Mangaroo

March 23, 2026

Rest in peace Dr Paul. Humble, people person, a gentle giant. We will miss you.

Dr Donnette Simms

March 23, 2026

A man of many accomplishments. The memory that will always remain in my mind as an inspiration is his relationship with his sons. He was not just their father., he was their friend, confidant, parring P, bandmate(me played an awesome comb Kazoo)
RIP Bro Paul

Ryan Turner

March 23, 2026

Tomlin will always be remembered by me….we met when he initially taught me in Community Health where I was impacted by his erudite attributes, calm confidence and kind demeanor, but it was in the yoga studio where I was fortunate enough to see the embodiment of his soul. A very special human being indeed! Sleep well Tomlin🙏🏾
#a life well lived🙏🏾

Karen Phillips

March 23, 2026

My mentor, advisor, a true father figure and friend ❤️

Dr Jodi Frank

March 23, 2026

During my tenure as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities & Education, Tomlin was a great friend and support for the faculty. Whether it was to provide wise counsel, or to speak at our signature events, we knew we could count on him. Among the events which he supported were those which marked the Faculty's 75th anniversary year. The photo was taken at the Service of Celebration which opened that year and at which he spoke eloquently of the value of the humanities and education.

Silvia Kouwenberg

March 23, 2026

Dr Paul was the epitome of kindness and grace. He seemed to have more hours in the day than most, making time for drop ins and courtesy calls. He listened, he passed on wisdom, he sought to learn, he cared and he made you feel as if you were the only thing he had to that day!

Walk good Sir, you will be missed and you are dearly loved,

Dalea, on behalf of The Institute of Gender and Development Studies

Dalea Bean

March 23, 2026

Dr. Paul- a gentle giant, very kind, very hospitable who made a genuine contribution to our institution. We will miss you.

Simone Badal

March 23, 2026

Dr Paul will be greatly missed. My encounters with him were always the right combination of warmth, professionalism, openness to new ideas/opinions and humility. A great role model .....

Jacqueline Duncan

March 23, 2026

Thank you for enriching my life -- from those fun Irvine Hall days, to house visits because Tara was ill, right through and full circle back to UWI --this time in its meeting rooms and events. I will not forget your exemplary life of humility, dignity, gentleness and an exceptional understanding of people. Walk good. Celia

Celia Blake

March 23, 2026

Dr Paul has been an excellent advocate for student success. He has contributed significantly to the revival of professional Sport on campus, he pushed for the reinstatement of the UWI Sports scholarship granting underprivileged students the opportunity to study. Up until his death he chaired the local organizing committee for the UWI games. He led with humility and grace. An irreplaceable human, may he sleep peacefully.

Aldeam Facey

March 23, 2026

I remember Tomlin Paul with great fondness as someone who put his humanity first, and let it guide how he interacted with us all.

You will be sadly missed. Go well my friend

David McBean

March 23, 2026

I will miss Dr. Paul. He still feels so much alive. There are times when I struggle to believe he has transitioned.

Dr Paul had so much light and life. I keep reflecting on the great conversations we shared, whether these were in his office, in Irvine Hall, or on the phone. Students loved interacting with Dr Paul. They described him as inclusive, empowering and disarming. He loved students and believed in them.

Dr. Paul loved a good conversation. He enjoyed developing ideas, and he loved collaborations. He made partnerships fun. I particularly enjoyed exchanging stories of our childhood - there were so many similarities, discussing parenting, and solving problems at work. What a great man he was! He is terribly missed.

On behalf of the Irvine Hall community - residents, resident advisors, staff (past and present) and alumni - and on behalf of my family, I extend our condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP Dr. Paul.

(The attached photo is one he shared for Irvine Hall's Spirit Day, 2024 [Note the Yellow!])

- Simone Williams, Student Services and Development Manager - Irvine Hall, University of the West Indies, Mona.

Simone Williams

March 23, 2026

Tomlin was amazing. Wanting to learn. Humble. Sharp. Fully engaged. Few people I have met have been as purely sincere and committed to bettering himself and others as Tomlin.

Never shying away from trying the next thing and meeting the next challenge, he, unlike many, met each new experience as a beginner. Not naïvely, but with an incisiveness that came from his scientific and medical training, and a warmth and humanity that few express so consistently.

I miss him dearly.

Ethan Schutz

Ethan Schutz

March 23, 2026

Dr. Tomlin Paul was a man whose life spoke louder than words a life marked by purpose, service, and quiet excellence. He did not merely exist; he invested himself in others, leaving footprints of wisdom, compassion, and integrity wherever he went.

Dr. Tomlin Paul will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was a life well lived, and a legacy that endures.

Roger Bent

March 23, 2026

He has embarked upon a whole new journey now … the world was a better place and now, off he goes to gift himself somewhere else.

Marcia Forst

March 23, 2026

Poem for Tomlin
Tomlin the Healer
Was one of our clan
A wheeler and dealer
Of life as a man.
His kindness and heart
Will be sorely missed
By those who were part
Of this world that he kissed.
Wherever you end
Here below or above
Tomlin, our friend
May you thrive and be loved!

Marcia Forst, March/2026

Marcia Forst

March 23, 2026

Tomlin entered my life at a critical juncture. He was a great listener, warm and intuitive. We would end our long days of training with more hours of conversation: processing what we had learnt, sharing our doubts and figuring ourselves out. I loved that he too was on his own journey of self discovery, and that he went all in. He shared his vulnerabilities and his vast knowledge, he married wisdom with a real sense of fun. Above all, he was an ally.

Tomlin, thank you for all the happy moments. Thank you for keeping me on the straight and narrow. And thank you for simply having the courage to be you. Please keep an eye on us from up there!

Ella Strickland

March 21, 2026

You made us feel so welcome, even when you weren’t at your best. I’m so glad we got to spend time with you. Love always.

Gretchen

March 20, 2026

For everything, you will always be with me.

You will be missed more than words can hold.
In the quiet spaces.
In the moments I reach for someone to listen, and remember it was always you.

Your calm, steady ear.
Your patience.
The way you never rushed judgment, but always made space for understanding.

You didn’t just listen… you leaned in.
You made what mattered to us, matter to you.

One more Sunday evening, hot bread and butter in hand.
One more quiet moment beside you, as you read your books.
One more time to hear your voice say, “Go Tabbo!”
One more time to stand beside you making frybake dumplings together.

Not for a lifetime…
just a moment.

But since I cannot,
I will hold on to the moments you gave me
and carry you with me,
always. Rest in peace Dad.
- Love Tabbo

Tabeal Paul

March 18, 2026

Dr.Tomlin Paul was indeed "One of a kind", a down to earth, kind and loving servant of the people and his family.

He gave each and everyone who sought his advice medically, or otherwise the reassurance that all will be well.

His contribution was the best than one can ever ask for, but more importantly, it was for free, sealed with an " Infectious smile"

May the almighty Lord receive this humble servant with open arms.

In a world of turmoil, hatred, selfishness and darkness, let us be a light, a light that radiates overwhelmingly, a beacon of hope, a listening ear and a shoulder for others to lean on.

These are the attributes without a doubt, that truly exemplifies Dr. Tomlin Paul.

Let each and everyone of us who knew him, worked with him, taught by him, touched by his humility, amazed of his intellectual depth, his charisma, be a living testament of this great legend and his leagacy will live on and continue to inspire others..

"Eternal rest grant onto him O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon him, and may he rest in eternal heavenly peace Amen.."🫶🏼🙌🙏

"Until we meet again my brother"

Martin Alves

March 18, 2026

Miss you dad!

Andrew Paul

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