Paul Wesson Carlisle went to be with our Lord on the Saturday morning of Easter weekend, April 7, 2007.
Paul was an 85 year old husband, father, grandfather, and true American hero.
A Beaumont sports legend, a coach, a decorated World War II soldier, a life long church leader, an educator, a community and civic leader, and a servant to others are just a few descriptions of Paul Carlisle. Thousands of Beaumont students considered him a role model and an inspiration that helped shape their lives. He dedicated his life to serving his Lord and fellow man. A humble man, he epitomized masculinity and every day through his actions and deeds.
Paul Carlisle’s influence in Beaumont helped shape and lead our community for sixty-years. His character lives on in the lives of his students.
Paul created a beautiful legacy starting with his devoted wife of sixty-four years, Florence. Their three sons are, Gary and wife Sylvia, middle son, Chip and wife Susan, and youngest son, Mark and wife Ann; he leaves six grandchildren: Gary Jr. and wife Kristie Carlisle, Cortney and husband Jack Niland, Paige Carlisle, Erin and husband Josh Bibb, Kristin and husband Andrew Morton, and Wes and wife Martha Carlisle; and seven great-grandchildren.
Paul was born November 29, 1921, to Mattie and Robert Lee in Martindale, Texas. He attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, receiving a Bachelors of Science and majoring in Education. Returned after service in World War II to receive his Masters in Education. Paul entered college in 1939 and lettered in three sports. He received four letters in Basketball with All-Conference Honors and was elected team captain his senior year. He also lettered in football and track. In 1984, he was named to the Southwest Texas Hall of Honor.
Paul was a veteran of three and one-half years in the infantry in World War II. His ship landed in Bersailles, France. Then, he spent many of a night under the stars on his march to Germany, where he fought till the Germans surrendered. As described by his Major General A.C. Smith: he was firing his mortar at known enemy installations. When the mortar jammed with live ammunition, he launched the fire while working under hail of enemy small arms and artillery fire. He perservered in the fulfillment of his assignment, thus enabling advancing infantry to reach their objective. Carlisle displayed aggressive spirit and determination. His iniative, courage, and devotion to duty reflect credit on himself and the Armed Forces. He was decorated with two Bronze Stars with and Oak Leaf Cluster.
After returning from active duty, Paul completed his degree and accepted a position at French High School as Basketball coach in 1947. In six years at French High, Carlisle led his boys to four Regional Basketball titles including State Runner-up in 1949. He coached football for one year and won the District Title. He was selected to become principal of the newly formed Eugene Field Elementary School in 1953. He served as principal for twenty-five years. Carlisle Drive in Beaumont is named in his honor.
Upon moving to Beaumont, Paul and Florence joined Wesley United Methodist Church and served as Chairman, Bible School Teacher, and completed task that needed to be done for sixty-years. He was equally attentitive as Chairman of the Lawn crew as he was chairman of the Finance Committee.
Paul was a member of the Young Men’s Business League for forty-five years. He served faithfully on the Board of Directors for five consecutive years and played an integral role in the formation of numerous youth programs.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude and appreciation to all of Paul’s friends and prayer groups.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at Wesley United Methodist Church with Reverend Robert Besser, officiating under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. Pallbearers include Gary Carlisle, Jr., Wes Carlisle, Jack Niland, Josh Bibb, Andrew Morton, Scottie Gregorcyk and Wallace Gregorcyk. Honorary Pallbearers include the kitchen class at Wesley United Methodist Church. A gathering of family and friends will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday, April 9, 2007 at the mortuary.
