Remembering Ron Kenoly: Gospel Pioneer and Worship Visionary Passes Away at 81

Renowned gospel singer, worship leader, and songwriter Ron Kenoly passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, through a heartfelt post on Instagram.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Ron Kenoly became one of the most influential voices in contemporary worship music. He rose to global prominence in the 1990s with powerful live worship albums produced under Integrity Music, including Lift Him Up (1992), God Is Able (1994), and Welcome Home (1996). These albums, recorded before live congregations, helped reshape the sound and atmosphere of corporate worship around the world.
Kenoly’s songs—among them “Ancient of Days,” “Lift Him Up,” and “Righteousness, Peace, Joy”—became anthems of praise across denominations and continents. His joyful energy, biblical lyrics, and heart for true worship made him a cornerstone of the modern gospel and praise movement, particularly across Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia, where his ministry deeply impacted worship teams and church musicians for generations.
In addition to his music, Kenoly was a respected minister and teacher, holding a Doctorate in Ministry and leading Ron Kenoly Ministries International, which focused on training worship leaders and promoting unity through music grounded in Scripture.
He is survived by his wife, Diana, their children and grandchildren, and countless spiritual sons and daughters worldwide who continue to sing his songs in churches every Sunday. His legacy remains woven into the sound of global worship—a life that truly lifted Him up.