Ernest Gerald Prater, 89, of Wallingford, passed away Sunday, March 30, 2025, at his residence.  He was the widower of Dorothy Lamar Prater.

Born in Lewis County on January 26, 1936, his father was the late Willis Prater and his mother was the late Gertrude Deatley Prater.

Ernest was a retired truck driver and a farmer.

He is survived by his daughter, Carolyn Prater Boling (Kenny) of Flemingsburg; his sister, Sandy Prater of Wallingford; and his daughter-in-law, Caren Prater of Flemingsburg.   In addition, he is survived by three of his grandchildren, Dennis Conley of Maysville, Todd Conley of Goddard, and Shae Prater of Flemingsburg; his three great grandchildren, Makayla Conley, Emma Conley, and Camden Conley; his special niece, Tammy Prater Purdon (Marty) of Wallingford; along with many extended family members; and two special people in his life, Robin Conn and Mark Mineer.

In addition to his wife Dorothy who passed on December 10, 1966, his mother Gertrude, and his father Willis, Ernest was preceded in death by his two sons, Lowell Clayton Prater and Rodney Dale Prater.  He was also preceded by two of his grandchildren, Bradley Conley and C.C. Prater; his three brothers, James Lewis Prater, Carl Gene Prater, and Clayton Monroe Prater; and a special nephew, Ronnie Lamar.

The funeral service will begin at 12 noon, Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Boone-Nickell Funeral Home with Pastor Jerry Boling officiating.

Ernest will be laid to rest in Martin Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Mark Mineer, Johnny Conn, Jeff Doyle, Alan Patton, and Dennis Conley.

Visitation will be 11 a.m., until the hour of service at 12 p.m., Thursday, at Boone-Nickell located at 150 West Water Street, Flemingsburg, Ky. 41041.

In place of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Ernest to Martin Cemetery (C/O Philip Doyle, 795 Pigeon Roost Road, Wallingford, KY 41093).

Friends may offer online condolences at www.boonenickellfuneralhome.com