The global Christian music community is mourning the loss of Dr. Ron Kenoly, the influential American gospel singer, worship leader, songwriter, and pastor, who has died at the age of 81.
Kenoly’s passing was confirmed today, February 3, 2026, through announcements by close associates, including his longtime music director Bruno Miranda, who shared the news via social media. Tributes have poured in rapidly from fellow artists, worship leaders, and fans worldwide, many crediting his timeless anthems with shaping modern congregational worship and inspiring generations of psalmists.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Ron Kenoly served in the United States Air Force before embarking on a music ministry that spanned decades. He rose to international prominence in the 1990s through powerful live worship recordings released under Integrity Music. His breakthrough album, Lift Him Up (1992), became a landmark in contemporary praise music, featuring participatory, Spirit-filled sessions that resonated far beyond American churches—particularly in Africa, where his songs remain staples in services to this day.
Among his most enduring hits are “Ancient of Days,” “Let There Be Praise,” “Whose Report Shall We Believe,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and “Lift Him Up.” Other notable projects include God Is Able, Welcome Home, and Sing Out with One Voice. Kenoly’s ministry extended to pastoring at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, and leading worship at conferences, seminars, and events in over 100 nations through Ron Kenoly Ministries.
He earned a Doctorate in Ministry of Sacred Music in 1996 and, in later years, relocated to Central Florida while continuing to travel, teach, record, and mentor worship teams.
The cause of death has not been officially disclosed by his family or representatives. Kenoly is survived by his wife Diana, whom he married in 2014 (noted as a United Nations Ambassador in some reports), along with children and grandchildren.
Prominent voices in gospel music have already begun honoring his legacy. Nigerian worship leader Nathaniel Bassey expressed gratitude for Kenoly’s influence, noting how his songs shaped entire generations. Others described him as a “true worshipper,” “vessel of grace,” and “soldier” whose humility and devotion left an indelible mark.
Funeral arrangements and memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days. As one tribute reflected: “His Spirit-filled songs, his legacy, and his impact will continue to speak across generations.”
Ron Kenoly’s life and ministry exemplified a call to “create an environment for the manifest presence of God”—a mission that will echo in churches and hearts for years to come.
Rest in peace, Dr. Ron Kenoly. To God alone be the glory.
