Ernest “Ernie” Pruitt Mitchell, Jr. Obituary, PADUCAH, Ky. — Ernest “Ernie” Pruitt Mitchell, Jr., 78, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026. A lifelong resident of Paducah, Ernie was remembered as a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.
Ernie devoted nearly 35 years of his career to broadcasting and telecasting at WPSD News Channel 6. He was passionate about his work and took great pride in keeping people informed and connected to the community he loved. Over the course of his career, his familiar voice and presence became a cherished part of the lives of many people throughout the region.
Beyond his professional life, Ernie treasured his family above all else. He was a devoted father and grandfather, and one of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren grow. He cherished the time they spent together and the many memories they created as a family.
Ernie was also a devoted Catholic and a member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church. His faith was an important part of his life, and he cared deeply about his community, generously sharing his time and talents with others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Roth Mitchell and Ernest Pruitt Mitchell, Sr.; his nephew, Patrick Holland; and his brother-in-law, Dennis Holland. He is survived by his daughters, Vanessa (Ben) Cochran, Maureen Mitchell, and Allison (Chris) Redden; grandchildren Jeremy, William, Jacob, Maribeth, Dylan, True, Thomas, River, and Lauren; his sister, Kathy Holland; nieces Tori Bloxom and Colleen Greenwalt; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and many beloved cousins.
Visitation for Ernie will be held Thursday, August 27, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah, located at 120 Memorial Drive in Paducah. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, August 28, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, with Rev. Mike Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
Ernie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, former colleagues, and members of the community he served for so many years. His voice may be gone from the air, but the love he gave his family and the mark he left on Paducah and the surrounding community will remain part of the memories of those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lourdes Auxiliary, 1530 Lone Oak Road, Paducah, KY 42003. Messages and memories for the family may be shared through Milner & Orr Funeral Home.