With profound sorrow, the WCHS-TV news family and the wider community of Charleston are mourning the passing of veteran journalist Kennie Bass, a fixture of West Virginia’s airwaves for more than two decades. His death was confirmed early Wednesday morning by station officials. He was more than a reporter — he was a storyteller, a mentor, and a voice people trusted.
For years, Kennie Bass was a constant in the lives of thousands across the Kanawha Valley. His unmistakable voice, thoughtful reporting, and unshakable integrity made him a cornerstone of local journalism. Whether breaking down complex political developments or shining a light on the triumphs of everyday West Virginians, Kennie’s work always came from a place of compassion and clarity.
“He understood this place and these people better than anyone,” said one longtime colleague. “He didn’t just report the news — he lived it, felt it, and made sure we felt it too.”
Kennie joined WCHS-TV in the late 1990s and quickly became a trusted name in households across the state. From natural disasters to community triumphs, he brought the news home with a sense of calm, courage, and care. He treated each assignment not just as a job, but as a duty — to inform, to investigate, and most importantly, to tell the truth.
Beyond the newsroom, Kennie was a passionate voice in pop culture commentary. A proud self-proclaimed geek, he embraced science fiction, comic books, and film with enthusiasm and depth, bringing a fresh, thoughtful perspective to his reviews. It was a side of him that endeared him even further to viewers, especially those who saw themselves in his fandom.
Across social media, tributes have poured in from viewers, colleagues, and public officials alike — many noting how Kennie’s kindness, humility, and trademark wit left a lasting mark.
“He was the real deal,” one viewer wrote. “He wasn’t just in our living rooms — he was in our hearts.”
In a field often marked by change and turnover, Kennie Bass stood as a steady force. His reporting held power to account, his storytelling uplifted the overlooked, and his presence on screen made the news feel just a little more human.
WCHS-TV has announced plans for a special on-air tribute in the coming days to celebrate Kennie’s remarkable career and enduring impact on West Virginia journalism.
Funeral arrangements are still pending. He is survived by family, close friends, and the generations of viewers who welcomed him into their homes — and their lives — every evening.
Kennie Bass brought truth to light, heart to headlines, and soul to the stories of West Virginia. He will be deeply missed — but never forgotten.
Rest in peace, Kennie. And thank you — for everything.