CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Kanawha County Commission is mourning the loss of longtime WCHS-TV reporter and broadcaster Kennie Bass.
Bass spent decades in local news and radio, covering a wide range of stories from high school sports to major investigative reports that impacted the community.
Throughout his career, he earned numerous awards and honors, including induction into the West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Beyond journalism, Bass was well known for his love of the arts. He frequently performed with local theatre groups such as the Charleston Light Opera Guild and highlighted local productions through his “On Stage” segments on WCHS-TV.
In January, the Kanawha County Commission honored Bass for his distinguished career in television and radio. He and his wife, Claire, accepted a proclamation and an American flag in recognition of his many contributions to the community.
Kanawha County Commission President Ben Salango said, “Kennie was a dear friend and an outstanding investigative journalist. Tera and I are praying for his wife, Claire, and his entire family.”
Commissioner Lance Wheeler added, “I am thankful we were able to honor Kennie for his amazing career and accomplishments earlier this year. He was a great reporter and community leader. My wife Jessica and I are very sorry for his loss.”
Commissioner Natalie Tennant said, “Kennie was so engaged with his community not just through the news but with local theatre, too. He did it all with a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed.”
