It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Paul Werner, who joined our good Lord on August 11, 2026. 

Paul was truly a giant of a man in the world of theatre and television production—an actor, artist, director, writer, mime, puppeteer, technician, educator, mentor, and friend. During his 15 years at Mount Carmel, from 1974 to 1989, he taught Theatre Arts, Television Production, Computer Science, and Fine Arts. His creativity and vision helped shape two programs that became such a special part of the Mount Carmel experience: STK—Shinto Torii Kabuki, “God’s Gateway to the Theater”—and WMCA, including the creation of our weekly television news program.

Paul’s influence extended far beyond Mount Carmel. During a remarkable career spanning 50 years, he directed 84 plays, including six original musicals, served as State Director of the Louisiana Chapter of the International Thespian Society, and continued his work in education at Benjamin Franklin High School and NOCCA. In January 2024, Paul’s extraordinary contributions to theatre education were recognized when he was inducted into the Louisiana Thespian Hall of Fame—a fitting honor for someone who gave so much of his life to nurturing the creativity and talents of young people.

Perhaps what speaks most beautifully about Paul, however, is that his commitment to Mount Carmel never really ended. He remained a kind and generous mentor to those who succeeded him, always willing to share his wisdom, experience, stories, and encouragement. In recent years, Paul provided MCA with wonderful historical and archival information about STK and WMCA, helping us preserve the history of programs he loved and the memories of generations of students who were part of them.

Those who knew Paul will remember his gregarious spirit, his passion, his ability to connect with people, that wonderful little laugh, and, of course, that huge smile. His wisdom and generosity left a tremendous mark on so many lives. I can only imagine Paul looking down upon all of us now with that same little laugh and unmistakable smile.

We give thanks to God for Paul’s life, for his friendship, and for the extraordinary gifts he so generously shared with Mount Carmel and with generations of young people. Please join us in saying, “Eternal rest grant unto Paul, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.”

Beth Ann Simno and Sister Camille Anne

In 2025, as WMCA celebrated its 50th anniversary, Paul shared his memories of the program he founded. We are grateful to have his words and memories preserved in this special video.