Is there a secret or special tool needed to remove interior door panels. All screws, handle, and fastners have been removed. The top of panel is still tight where lock is...

 

The top of the door panel has clips that hook over the top edge of the door shell. You need to pull the panel free from the push fasteners along the front and back edges (you did find all the phillips screws in the carpet at the bottom, didn't you). Then pull the panel away from the door shell and push up and towards the glass to disengage the clips along the top edge.

 

Joe,

Thanks for your great help, worked perfectly.