Renowned American gospel singer, worship leader and pastor, Ron Kenoly, has passed away at the age of 81.
The news of his death was confirmed on Tuesday following an outpouring of tributes from gospel ministers and artistes across the world on social media.
Top Nigerian gospel minister, Nathaniel Bassey, was among the first to announce Kenoly’s passing. In a post shared on Instagram, Bassey described the late singer as a major influence on generations of worship leaders.
“Dr Ron Kenoly crosses to yonder side. Thank you for inspiring generations of psalmists like me,” he wrote.
“I grew up on these songs. And today, others are growing up on ours. Thank you, sir.”
Renowned evangelist, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, also confirmed the development in a Facebook post, where he paid glowing tribute to the gospel legend.
“Farewell to a true worshipper, Ron Kenoly,” Oke wrote.
“A man of humility, a vessel of grace, and a true worshipper who gave his life to the glory of God.”
Bishop Oke described Kenoly as a man of deep spiritual substance, noting that he was filled with the Holy Spirit, grounded in Scripture and impactful both through his music and ministry.
“He carried the presence of God wherever he ministered, lifting hearts and nations into an atmosphere of worship and reverence,” he said, adding that Kenoly ministered on several occasions in Nigeria and other parts of the world.
While acknowledging the pain of the loss, Oke expressed confidence in the eternal reward of a life devoted to God.
“We commiserate with his beloved family, his wife, children and grandchildren—and pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort and strengthen them at this critical time,” he added.
Ron Kenoly was a major force in contemporary gospel and praise music, leaving an enduring mark on global Christian worship. His 1992 album, Lift Him Up, is widely regarded as a landmark project that helped promote lively, participatory worship expressions in churches around the world.
Some of his most well-known songs include “Majesty,” “Righteousness, Peace & Joy,” “Anointing,” “All Honour,” “Sing Out,” “Ancient of Days,” and “Jesus Is Alive,” many of which remain regular features in worship services across Africa, Europe and beyond.
Throughout a career that spanned several decades, Kenoly released multiple successful albums such as Ron Kenoly, God Is Able, Welcome Home, and Sing Out with One Voice. His sound was known for blending gospel, contemporary Christian music and praise choruses, often delivered with large choirs and vibrant congregational participation.
Beyond his music career, Kenoly served for many years as a pastor and worship leader at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California. He was also a highly sought-after worship facilitator and speaker at international conferences and crusades, particularly across Africa, where his ministry found strong acceptance.
Ron Kenoly is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers who helped shape modern contemporary worship music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence generations of worshippers worldwide.
