US Gospel music legend Ron Kenoly dies at 81: Worship Icon behind “Ancient of Days” remembered Worldwide
Ron Kenoly, legendary gospel worship leader, dies at 81
The global Christian music community is mourning the death of Ron Kenoly, the iconic American gospel singer, worship leader, and pastor, who has died at the age of 81. His passing, confirmed on February 2–3, 2026, has triggered an outpouring of tributes from churches, worship leaders, and gospel artists across continents.
Renowned for his high-energy live worship albums and choir-backed praise anthems, Ron Kenoly was one of the most influential figures in modern praise and worship music. His songs became staples in churches across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, shaping how congregational worship is expressed today.
Who Was Ron Kenoly? A Pioneer of Contemporary Worship Music
Born Ronald Kenneth Kenoly on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Ron Kenoly’s journey to gospel prominence was unconventional. Before dedicating his life fully to Christian ministry, he explored R&B music and served in the United States Air Force, where he met his future wife.
His worship career took a defining turn in the 1980s when he became a worship leader at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California. This platform launched him into global recognition, especially after partnering with Integrity Music, where his live worship recordings redefined praise music.
Breakthrough Albums and Iconic Worship Songs
Ron Kenoly rose to international fame with the release of “Lift Him Up With Ron Kenoly” (1992), a landmark album that reshaped praise worship globally. The project introduced worship anthems that are still sung decades later.
Some of his most enduring songs include:
- “Ancient of Days”
- “Jesus Is Alive”
- “Lift Him Up”
- “We’re Going Up to the High Places”
- “Welcome Home”
- “Use Me”
- “Heal Their Land”
Over his career, Kenoly released more than 20 albums, including God Is Able, Sing Out With One Voice, and Welcome Home. His energetic worship style, marked by large choirs, call-and-response praise, and live congregational recordings, became a template for modern worship services worldwide.
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Ron Kenoly’s Ministry Beyond Music
Beyond the stage, Ron Kenoly was a pastor, mentor, and teacher of worship. Through worship conferences, seminars, and the Academy of Praise, he mentored generations of worship leaders, emphasizing praise as a spiritual experience rather than performance.
His ministry impact was especially profound in Africa, where many churches adopted his worship structure and musical arrangements.
Ron Kenoly’s Wife and Family Life
Ron Kenoly was married to Tavita Kenoly, whom he met during his Air Force years. The couple shared over 42 years of marriage and raised three sons, Samuel, Ronald, and Tony.
Tavita was not only a supportive partner but also a musical collaborator, featuring vocally on songs such as “Lord I Magnify.” She stood by Kenoly through personal and professional challenges, including his well-documented recovery journey.
Cause of Death and Official Statements
As of publication, the cause of Ron Kenoly’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Confirmation of his passing was shared by close associates, including music director Bruno Miranda, via social media.
Details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
Tributes Pour In From Around the World
Following the news of his death, tributes have flooded social media from gospel artists, pastors, and worship leaders worldwide. Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey and many others credited Kenoly for shaping their worship theology and musical direction.
Ron Kenoly is remembered not just as a singer, but as a global worship architect whose music lifted millions into praise.
Ron Kenoly’s Enduring Legacy
Ron Kenoly leaves behind a monumental legacy as a pioneer of contemporary praise and worship music, a pastor devoted to spiritual growth, and a servant whose songs continue to echo in churches across generations.
His voice may be silent, but his worship lives on.
FAQ
Who was Ron Kenoly?
Ron Kenoly was a renowned American gospel singer, worship leader, and pastor best known for pioneering contemporary praise and worship music through live recordings.
How did Ron Kenoly die?
Ron Kenoly died in early February 2026 at the age of 81. His family has not officially disclosed the cause of death.
When did Ron Kenoly die?
He passed away between February 2 and February 3, 2026, according to multiple confirmed reports.
How old was Ron Kenoly when he died?
Ron Kenoly was 81 years old at the time of his death.
Who is Ron Kenoly’s wife?
Ron Kenoly was married to Tavita Kenoly, his wife of over four decades and a fellow musician.
What are Ron Kenoly’s most popular songs?
His most famous songs include Ancient of Days, Jesus Is Alive, Lift Him Up, Welcome Home, and We’re Going Up to the High Places.
What church did Ron Kenoly serve?
He served prominently at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California.
Why is Ron Kenoly important to gospel music?
Ron Kenoly transformed modern worship by introducing energetic, choir-driven, congregational praise that shaped worship practices globally.