Saint Lucia is mourning the loss of a voice that for decades carried warmth, wisdom, and music into homes across the island. Tony Paul, veteran broadcaster and co-founder of Rev Up SLU, died suddenly on September 7, 2025. His death has left an aching silence in the community of La Clery where he grew up, and in the hearts of listeners who had long considered him part of their daily lives.
Paul’s story was one of dedication and passion for radio. His career began in 1981 in Antigua and later took him to the US Virgin Islands where his natural talent for connecting with audiences only grew stronger. Determined to sharpen his craft, he trained in New York City with industry greats before returning home to Saint Lucia. Here, his voice became a familiar presence across eight different stations. Paul held the distinction of being the first-ever presenter for three local stations.
More than just a broadcaster, Tony was an architect of sound. He wrote jingles, commercials, and promotions with unmatched creativity, and he carried an enduring love for the music of the 70s and 80s. In 2023, alongside his brother Andre, he took a bold step by launching Rev Up SLU, a station that quickly became a staple in local radio. Paul not only managed sales and marketing but gave Rev Up its heartbeat, infusing it with his unmistakable energy.
Paul’s influence stretched far beyond the airwaves. In La Clery, he was a football stalwart, a Friday night fixture among friends in the Fourth Lane, and a neighbour whose laughter could often be heard long before he was seen.
The night of his death is etched painfully in the memories of those who loved him. Friends recall hearing him laughing with his usual exuberance, only to be shocked hours later by news of his sudden collapse. Tony had complained of being out of breath after a running race in the middle of the night with his best friend, Blow. At the hospital, his brother Andre was confronted with the devastating truth of Paul’s death.
“We tried our best… but your brother didn’t make it,” doctors told Andre.
For Michelle, Paul’s partner of nearly a decade, the grief is almost unbearable. The two were making preparations to marry on Valentine’s Day 2026.
“Tony was my world, my everything,” she shared. “For nine and a half years we never had a quarrel. Never had a fight. He was so loving, so kind, so honest. I don’t think anybody can compare to Tony.”
Saturdays were their sacred time together, a tradition of love and laughter. On the night of his death, she had already prepared his favourite hamburgers, saving them for their weekly date, a Saturday that never came.
Paul’s funeral, held on September 26 at the La Clery Catholic Church, was both a mourning and a celebration of his life. Pews were filled with dignitaries, colleagues, and friends, including Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, former prime minister and parliamentary representative for Castries North Stephenson King, and Minister Dr Virginia Albert-Poyotte. Familiar media faces were also seen in the pews including another Tony Paul.
Prime Minister Pierre, who shared a close friendship with Paul, spoke to the St. Lucia Times from the heart saying, “First of all, I’d like to express my condolences to the family of Tony Paul, his brothers and sisters. Many people don’t really know how close to you are or not close to, and I was basically very, very close to Tony. I can show you the messages we exchanged at the time. He was a thinker, but he was a guy who made a point. I’ll miss him… . We spoke about politics. I can tell you, he supported me. And he always encouraged me. And we should be well. I heard the church say that this afternoon he is in a better place. I really hope so. Condolences to his family…”
The Prime Minister’s words underscored not just the national importance of Tony Paul, but the deep personal bonds he had built throughout his life with everyone, including this writer.
Perhaps the most poignant image of that day, however, was that of Andre, overwhelmed with grief as he sat by his brother’s coffin. Together they had built Rev Up SLU, and following Paul’s death, Andre must carry that vision without the man who gave it life; a heavy load that he is trying to carry well each day.
“Life goes on…” he said, with a broken tone.
Paul lived loudly, loved deeply, and worked tirelessly. He was a son of La Clery who rose to become a giant in Saint Lucian radio, yet he never lost touch with his roots or his community. His was a life filled with music, laughter, and love, a life that inspired others to embrace their passions and cherish the people they hold dear.
Saint Lucia has lost one of its finest, but his story will continue to inspire for years to come.
