Renowned gospel singer and worship leader Ron Kenoly has died at the age of 81.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly rose to international prominence in the late 20th century. He gained widespread acclaim with the release of Lift Him Up. With Ron Kenoly in 1992, an album that helped redefine praise music. Songs such as “Ancient of Days,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and “We’re Going Up” went on to become enduring worship classics sung in churches around the world.
Over the course of his career, Kenoly released more than 20 albums, including God Is Able, Sing Out With One Voice, and Welcome Home. His energetic, choir-backed performances and congregational worship style pioneered the integration of gospel, praise, and contemporary Christian music, influencing generations of worship leaders.
His family or representatives have not officially disclosed the cause of his death. Plans for memorial services and celebrations of his life are expected to be announced in the coming days.
News of his passing was confirmed through tributes shared by several artists on social media, triggering an outpouring of grief across the global gospel music community.
Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey paid tribute to the late legendary musician in an Instagram post, writing, “Dr. Ron Kenoly crosses to yonder side. Thank you for inspiring generations of psalmists like me. I grew up on these songs. And today, others are growing up on ours. Thank you, sir.”
Kenoly was renowned worldwide for his strong worship anthems, including Majesty, Righteousness, Peace & Joy, Anointing, All Honour, and Sing Out, songs that formed modern gospel worship and influenced generations of ministers and music lovers.
Beyond music, Kenoly was also a respected pastor and worship leader, serving prominently at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California. He was a regular feature at international worship conferences, seminars, and church events, where he mentored worship teams and led large-scale praise gatherings.
His ministry and music resonated far beyond the United States, reaching churches across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, where his songs became an integral part of modern worship services.
Generally recognized as one of the most impactful figures in modern gospel music, Kenoly’s legacy endures through his music, ministry, and lasting influence on worship across continents.
