Mourners Remember Big Apple News Anchor Ernie Anastos

On Monday, hundreds attended the wake for Ernie Anastos, a cherished news anchor known for being grounded and beloved in the industry.

People filled New Rochelle’s Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church to honor Anastos, a renowned Emmy Award-winning journalist who reported from several major train stations across the city.

The beloved anchor passed away early Thursday at Northern Westchester Hospital due to pneumonia, according to his wife. He was 82 years old.

A prominent figure in television, Anastos had an extensive career that included covering significant events like the 9/11 attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic, earning him 30 Emmy Awards and nominations along the way.

Described as a proud Greek-American and known colloquially as “Positively Ernie,” those who knew him well characterized him as “down to earth and lovable.” This sentiment was echoed across various New York networks, including ABC7, CBS2, and Fox 5 NY.

“If New York had a Mount Rushmore for news anchors, Ernie would surely be one of the four,” remarked Tony Aiello, a reporter for CBS News in the northern suburbs. Meanwhile, businessman John Catsimatidis reflected, “He always had a smile. He was tired of bad news and preferred to share good news.” Catsimatidis added, humorously, that Anastos appeared much younger than his years, saying he looked “62” instead of 82—something most who met him might agree with.

The devoted father and husband was described by Dino Yotides, vice-president of the church’s parish council, as having a special connection to Holy Trinity Church. “He was definitely Ernie to us here,” Yotides expressed, highlighting Anastos’ genuine nature.

“The loving and caring Ernie you saw on TV was truly who he was in our community,” he continued. “To us, he was a parishioner, a friend, and a brother.”

Anastos’ funeral is set for Tuesday morning at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.