William Ernest McElya Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the death of William Ernest McElya (Paducah, Kentucky), who passed away on October 15, 2025 at the age of 79. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of William Ernest McElya to pay them a last tribute.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Noel D. McElya and Lucille Crenshaw McElya; his sister Agnes Butler; and his daughter Melody Ann McElya Pugh. He is survived by: his wife Catherine Galloway McElya; his stepson David Galloway; his siblings, Jerry McElya (Judy), Janice Pace (Ted), Faye Brewer Spillman and Linda Sue Fowler (Gary); his granddaughters, Ashley Pugh and Kayla Pugh (Adam); and his son William Noel McElya (Teresa). He is also survived by 2 great grandchildren, many step grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even one new great great granddaughter.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19th 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Lindsey Funeral Home (226 N 4th St, Paducah, KY 42001). A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 20th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Gospel Mission Worship Center (6905 Benton Rd, Paducah, KY 42003). A burial will be held on Monday, October 20th 2025 at the Maplelawn Cemetery (1335 N 13th St, Paducah, KY 42001).
Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to St. Judes Children's Hospital or Gospel Mission Worship Center.
