Gospel Legend, Ron Kenoly, D!es At 81

Gospel Legend, Ron Kenoly, Dies At 81

Farewell to a Worship Giant: Gospel Legend Ron Kenoly Dies at 81
The world of Christian music is mourning a profound loss today. Ron Kenoly, the iconic American gospel singer, worship leader, pastor, and songwriter, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was confirmed on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across the global Christian community. �
Vanguard News
🌍 A Life Dedicated to Worship
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Ron Kenoly’s journey in ministry and music spanned over five decades. He wasn’t just a singer — he was a worship pioneer whose influence reshaped modern praise and worship music across continents. �
Wikipedia
Kenoly’s breakthrough came in the early 1990s with the release of his live worship album Lift Him Up with Ron Kenoly — a record that became one of the fastest-selling worship albums of the time. Songs like “Ancient of Days,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and “We’re Going Up” quickly became staples in church services around the world and helped define the sound of contemporary worship music for generations. �
Wikipedia
🎶 His Legacy in Song and Spirit
Over the years, Kenoly released more than 20 albums, including acclaimed works such as:
God Is Able
Sing Out with One Voice
Welcome Home
His energetic blend of gospel, praise, and contemporary worship, often backed by choirs and live congregations, inspired countless worship leaders and believers. �
Vanguard News
But Kenoly’s influence went beyond recordings. He served as a beloved pastor and worship leader, most notably at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, and he was a regular presence at international worship conferences and ministries — especially across Africa, where his music resonated deeply with the body of Christ. �
Vanguard News
💫 A Global Impact
Tributes have poured in from across the globe — from fellow gospel artists and pastors to worship leaders and everyday believers. Many have shared how Kenoly’s music helped shape their faith, encouraged their worship, and opened their hearts to the presence of God. �
Vanguard News
Social media platforms quickly filled with messages of gratitude and sorrow. Fans reflected on how his songs provided spiritual strength and joy during both silent evenings and jubilant gatherings. �
TwStalker
🙏 Remembering the Man Behind the Music
Though the official cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed, what remains certain is that Ron Kenoly’s music and ministry will continue long after his passing. His songs still fill church halls and echo in worship gatherings worldwide, serving as a testament to a life dedicated to glorifying God through sound and spirit. �

As believers and music lovers alike reflect on his legacy, one thing is clear: Ron Kenoly didn’t simply lead worship — he helped shape a generation’s understanding of what it means to lift hearts and voices in praise.