Tributes Pour In for Legendary Gospel Icon Ron Kenoly, Who Died at 81

Global Christian communities and music lovers are mourning the loss of Ron Kenoly, the iconic American gospel singer, worship leader and songwriter, who passed away at the age of 81 on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. His death was confirmed by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, via a statement shared on Kenoly’s official social media platforms.

Kenoly’s ministry spanned more than five decades, during which he became a defining figure in modern praise and worship music. His vibrant live recordings and deeply spiritual compositions helped shape contemporary worship across churches and denominations worldwide. Songs like “Ancient of Days,” “Jesus Is Alive,” “Lift Him Up,” and “Let There Be Praise” became staples in services from North America to Africa, Asia, and beyond.

Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly’s music journey began after serving in the United States Air Force. While he initially explored secular music, he eventually committed wholeheartedly to gospel and worship ministry, gaining international acclaim in the early 1990s with breakthrough projects like Lift Him Up, one of the fastest-selling worship albums of its time.

In his announcement, Bruno Miranda reflected on Kenoly’s legacy, emphasizing his identity not as a mere performer but as a worship leader whose mission was to guide others into authentic praise and devotion. “He was never an artist or an entertainer,” Miranda wrote, noting that Kenoly saw his calling as leading people into true worship in the presence of God.

News of his passing triggered a flood of heartfelt tributes from fellow artists, worship leaders and church figures worldwide. Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey honoured Kenoly on social media, thanking him for inspiring generations of psalmists and noting how his music shaped the faith journeys of countless worshippers and musicians.

Similarly, Bishop Wale Oke, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), described Kenoly as “a true worshipper who gave his life to the glory of God,” acknowledging the spiritual depth and humility that defined Kenoly’s ministry.

Christian labels and colleagues also paid tribute. Integrity Music, with whom Kenoly recorded many of his seminal works, hailed him as “a pioneering voice in praise and worship” whose influence reached across nations and generations.

Kenoly is survived by his family, including his wife Diana and their sons, and leaves behind a monumental musical and spiritual legacy. His anthems of praise continue to be sung in churches and worship gatherings worldwide, ensuring that his impact endures beyond his lifetime.