Breaking: Legendary Worship Music Leader, Ron Kenoly, Passes On At 81
Ron Kenoly, a popular American worship leader, singer, songwriter, recording artist, author, and ordained minister, has passed away. He transited to glory on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the age of 81. The global Church mourns his passing but gives thanks for his life of service, humility, and worship. He was known for his baritone voice, energetic performances, and soulful lyrics that provoked deep worship.
Ron Kenoly was celebrated worldwide for his powerful live worship recordings and his influence on contemporary praise and worship music. He also played a vital role in mentoring younger worship leaders. His music ministry extended beyond the United States to churches in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Ron Kenoly: Biography & Ministry
Ron Kenoly was born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas. He was raised in a Christian home and loved music from a young age. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force and sang with a top-40 cover band called The Mellow Fellow on military bases. He later left the military and moved to California, where he began a career in secular music.
After that period, he faced family challenges and grew in his faith, which led him to quit secular music. He spent several years looking for a gospel record deal while working different jobs. He earned a music degree from Alameda College, a Master of Divinity from Faith Bible College, and a Doctorate of Ministry in Sacred Music from Friends International Christian University.
He released his first Christian album in 1983, titled You Ought To Listen To This. He then started leading worship for well-known pastors like Jack Hayford and Lester Sumrall, which led to many other connections. In 1985, Kenoly became Jubilee’s full-time worship leader, and in 1987, he was ordained and named Music Pastor. He served in this role both nationally and internationally for many years.
Ron Kenoly’s breakthrough came in 1992 when Integrity Music released Lift Him Up, and it became the fastest-selling worship album at the time. He released several other albums and received a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year in 1997 for Welcome Home. In 1999, he moved to Florida, where he based his ministry for the later part of his life. He continued to travel, lead worship, record music, and write. Although his health slowed him down in his late 70s, he continued in active ministry until shortly before he passed away.
Ron Kenoly was married to his first wife, Tavita Kenoly, in the 1960s while he served in the military. They were married for 42 years until she passed away. They had three sons. He then married Diana on November 24, 2014. They remained married until his death.
Reactions to Ron Kenoly’s Passing
Bruno Miranda, a close associate of Kenoly, wrote on Instagram:
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“Doc was very intentional about one thing: he was never an artist, never an entertainer. He was a worship leader. And he took all the time necessary to explain what that truly meant.”
“A worship leader’s calling is not to perform songs, but to lead people into true worship in the presence of a King; the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.”
According to Integrity Music, the music label he was signed to, in a statement on Instagram:
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“Ron was more than a powerful worship leader with a global platform. He was a shepherd, a teacher, and a man of deep integrity who carried the presence of God with sincerity, humility, and joy. Through his music, leadership, and discipleship, Ron taught the Church how to sing with faith, freedom, and conviction. His impact across nations and generations is unmatched, and his legacy will continue to lead the Church in praise for years to come.
We are grateful for Ron’s legacy, his partnership with Integrity Music through the years, and the countless lives impacted through his obedience to God’s call. We extend our deepest love and prayers to Ron’s family, friends, and the many spiritual sons and daughters shaped by his life and ministry.”
We pray that God comforts the hearts of his family, close associates, and indeed the global Church as we mourn his passing. May his legacy of true worship continue to echo through many generations. Amen.
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