Ron Kenoly, a well-known American gospel musician, pastor, and worship leader, passed away at the age of 81. Following the confirmation of his death on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Christian music communities and worship leaders worldwide showered him with honours. Kenoly was well-known throughout the world for his stirring live worship records and his significant contribution to the development of modern praise and worship music. Churches in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas heard his music and ministry, and his songs became a staple of contemporary worship services. His influence extended well beyond the United States.
Kenoly, who was born in Coffeyville, Kansas, on December 6, 1944, became well-known throughout the world in the latter half of the 20th century. His 1992 CD Lift Him Up With Ron Kenoly, which helped reshape praise music, won him international accolades. Songs like "We're Going Up," "Jesus Is Alive," and "Ancient of Days" become timeless worship staples that are performed in churches all around the world.
Over the course of his career, Kenoly put out over 20 albums, such as Welcome Home, Sing Out With One Voice, and God Is Able. Generations of worship leaders were impacted by his innovative congregational worship approach and upbeat, choir-backed concerts, which combined gospel, praise, and modern Christian music.
In addition to his career as a musician, Kenoly was a well-known preacher and worship leader at the Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California. He directed large-scale praise events and served as a mentor to worship teams at international worship conferences, seminars, and church events.
Tributes from gospel musicians, preachers, and fans all around the world have been pouring in since the news of his passing. Many have talked about how their attitude to worship and their religion were influenced by Kenoly's leadership. Nathaniel Bassey, a Nigerian gospel preacher, and other prominent worship leaders recognised his significant impact on several generations of psalmists.
His family and representatives have not formally revealed the cause of death. In the upcoming days, plans for memorial services and life celebrations are anticipated to be revealed. As a pioneer of modern worship music and a devout follower of Christianity, Ron Kenoly leaves a lasting legacy. He is known for raising countless voices in praise all around the world.