Ron Kenoly was one of the most respected and influential worship leaders in Christian music. Through his songs, teaching, and ministry, he helped millions of believers around the world experience deeper worship. His music was not just heard—it was lived in churches across nations. On February 3, 2026, the global Church said goodbye to a faithful servant of God.
Who Was Ron Kenoly?
Ron Kenoly was an American gospel singer, songwriter, pastor, and worship leader. He was born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, USA. He began singing in church at a young age and later served in the U.S. Air Force after high school.
Although he briefly explored secular music, Ron Kenoly felt a strong calling from God and chose to dedicate his life fully to gospel ministry and worship.
A Calling Into Full-Time Worship Ministry
In 1985, Ron Kenoly entered full-time worship ministry. This decision marked a turning point not only in his life but also in the way worship music would be experienced in churches worldwide. His heart was set on leading people into God’s presence, not performing for an audience.
A Career That Shaped Modern Praise and Worship
Ron Kenoly became internationally known in the early 1990s through powerful live worship albums centered on Scripture-based, congregational praise.
His 1992 album Lift Him became one of the fastest-selling worship albums of its time and was later certified Gold, selling over 500,000 copies. Songs such as Ancient of Days, Jesus Is Alive, Anointing Fall on Me, My God Is Able, and Sing Out became global worship anthems sung in churches around the world.
He served for many years at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, where he worked as a worship leader and music pastor, eventually reaching over 120 nations through his ministry.
More Than Music: A Teacher, Pastor, and Mentor
Ron Kenoly was more than a singer. He was a pastor, author, and teacher of worship theology. He believed worship should always be centered on God, not on performance or applause.
He earned several academic degrees, including a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry in Sacred Music. Ron Kenoly taught at universities, led worship training programs, and mentored pastors, musicians, choir directors, and worship leaders around the world.
His Final Days and Passing
Ron Kenoly passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the age of 81. His death was confirmed by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, in a statement shared on his official Instagram account.
Miranda wrote, “Today we grieve deeply, but not without hope. The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds.”
The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Ron Kenoly leaves behind a powerful and lasting legacy. His songs continue to be sung in churches around the world. His teachings continue to guide worship leaders. His life continues to remind the Church that worship is not about performance, but about being in the presence of God.
Rest in glory, Ron Kenoly. Your song will continue for generations.
