Paul Thomas Carne

Paul Thomas Carne, 72, passed away on October 7, 2025 in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA. Born in Cardiff, Wales, Paul’s was a life filled with intellect, artistry, and quiet grace—a presence that gently transformed the lives of those close to him. A scholar of extraordinary depth, Paul earned a Master of Arts degree with honors in Russian and French from Gonville and Caius College at Cambridge University. His studies demanded that he read the literary greats in their original languages—an endeavor he met with characteristic precision. When asked to recall his favorite experience during his time at Cambridge, he said it wasn't lectures and classwork but running the folk club, where his beautiful Welsh singing voice brought traditional ballads to life.

Paul's mastery of language extended beyond academia into a distinguished career in publishing. At Cambridge University Press, he played an influential role in English Language Teaching (ELT), authoring and editing several important works. Later, as a freelance author and editor, he collaborated with Cambridge, Oxford, National Geographic Learning, and Cengage Publishing. Colleagues often marveled at his command of the English language— “scarily impressive”, one noted—and praised his meticulous approach: “He was the most thorough individual I've come across in the publishing world.” But Paul’s brilliance did not rest solely on the page. A prolific songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, music coursed through every chapter of his life. His first musical score came in the early 80's for *Jack of Dover*, a children's play written by his former wife, Nicky Carne. Through the years, Paul created a catalogue of over 900 original songs—the early years steeped in country roots and later a mix of Country, Americana, and Singer-Songwriter pieces. He was a brilliant lyricist whose music could move you to tears or fill a room with laughter. A few of Paul's compositions can be found online at: www.youtube.com/@Paul_Carne.Paul loved sport - watching endless hours of cricket, Formula 1, Cardiff City football, and the Tour de France on quiet afternoons. He was an avid runner and cyclist who completed a marathon and triathlon event in his 30's. His favorite hobby was spending many happy hours collecting and painting Imperial Guard miniatures from Warhammer 40k, a hobby he shared with his sons for over 30 years. A celebration of Paul's life and music was held on November 23, 2025 with a close-knit group of family and friends.

Those who knew Paul will remember not only his wit, knowledge and talent but also his humility, patience, warmth and gentle manner. Vicky will remember him as her Welshman and her greatest love.

Paul is survived by his wife Vicky Harris Carne and their little dog Tilly; his children Thomas Carne and Robin Carne (Giorgia); stepson Simon Shapiro (Laura ); grandchildren Lorenzo Carne, Noah Carne, and August Shapiro; and sister Sandra Evans. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Helen Carne and by Bodhi, his beloved Border Terrier.