Ernest Lee "Ernie" Winfrey

May 14, 2019

NASHVILLE – Ernest Lee “Ernie” Winfrey, age 77, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2019 in Skyline Hospital in Nashville. Ernie was a sound engineer for 23 years at Woodland Studios and SoundShop Studios, and worked closely with legends such as Paul McCartney, Dolly Parton, Neil Young, Gladys Knight, Marty Robbins, Chet Atkins, Willie Nelson,Charlie Daniels, Millie Jackson, Wilson Pickett, Joe Tex, Janie Fricke, Ronnie McDowell, Mac Davis, TG Sheppard, Gove Scrivenor, Amy Grant, Lee Greenwood, and Joan Baez. One of his biggest joys was reconnecting with Paul McCartney in 2016, 42 years after working with him on the Junior's Farm album at SoundShop in 1974. Ernie received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Audio Engineering Society's Nashville Chapter in 2014 for his life's work and contribution to the music industry. Ernie is survived by his mother, Kathleen Winfrey, son, Philip N. (Christy) Winfrey, Granddaughter, Tabitha Brooke Winfrey, aunt, Rosie (LS) Williams, uncle, James Shoemake, aunt, Cylettia Goode, aunt, Edith Wallace, aunt, Pat Wallace, and two great-grandchildren, Jace and Millie. He was proceeded in death by his father, Philip M Winfrey. Contributions for final expenses and Ernie's mother's care may be sent to The Winfrey Family, in care of Philip Winfrey, PO Box 160010, Nashville, TN 37216 A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 23, 2019 from 4-6 pm at Riverwood Church of Christ in Nashville.