Gospel music icon, Ron Kenoly, dies at 81

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Gospel music icon Ron Kenoly has passed away.

His death was announced by Bruno Miranda, his music director for over two decades.

The announcement was shared on Mr Kenoly’s official Instagram page on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the veteran worship leader died on Wednesday. He was 81.

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No details were given about the cause of death.

Mr Miranda described Mr Kenoly as a mentor and spiritual father whose life and ministry were rooted in discipline, humility, and a deep understanding of worship.

“Today, February 3, 2026, we said farewell to Dr Ron Kenoly,” he wrote, noting that their relationship extended far beyond music into years of spiritual guidance and personal mentorship.

Intentional singer

He recalled that Mr Kenoly was intentional about rejecting the label of entertainer, often stressing that his role was to lead people into worship, not to perform for them.

According to Mr Miranda, Mr Kenoly consistently taught that worship must be grounded in gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice rather than in the expectation of personal gain.

Mr Miranda added that these values were evident not only on stage but also in Mr Kenoly’s private life, describing him as a man whose character reflected the same reverence he displayed in public ministry.

“Though we grieve his passing, we do so with hope,” he said. “The worship he lived is now the worship he experiences.”

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Ron Kenoly

Mr Kenoly was born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas. After finishing high school, he relocated to Hollywood, California, before joining the United States Air Force, where he served from 1965 to 1968. While in the military, he performed with a band known as the Mellow Fellows, touring several military installations.

After completing his service, Mr Kenoly returned to Los Angeles and committed fully to music ministry. He later emerged as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Christian worship music.

His career reached a significant milestone in 1992 with the release of Lift Him, which became the fastest-selling worship album at the time.

His discography includes Jesus Is Alive (1991), Ancient of Days (1992), God Is Able (1994), Sing Out With One Voice (1995), Welcome Home (1996), and High Places: The Best of Ron Kenoly.