Ron Kenoly, a pioneering worship leader whose songs helped shape modern praise music for a generation of churches worldwide, has died at 81.
Kenoly died the morning of Feb. 3, 2026, according to a statement posted to Instagram by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda. No cause of death was disclosed.
“For over 20 years, I had the honor of walking alongside him in ministry around the world,” Miranda wrote, describing Kenoly not only as a leader but as “a son, a student, and a witness to a life marked by faithfulness.”
Born Dec. 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly developed a passion for music early in life. After high school, he moved to California to pursue entertainment and later served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965 to 1968, performing at military bases. Before fully committing to Christian ministry, he recorded secular R&B music and experienced commercial success. He ultimately stepped away from that career path, dedicating himself to gospel music and releasing his first Christian album in 1983.
Kenoly rose to international prominence in the early 1990s as a central figure in the contemporary praise and worship movement. His 1992 live album “Lift Him Up” became the fastest-selling worship album of its time, helping usher congregational worship into a new era marked by Scripture-driven lyrics and vibrant praise. Songs such as “Ancient of Days,” “Anointing Fall On Me” and “Jesus Is Alive” became anthems in churches around the world.
His album “Welcome Home” later received major industry recognition, including a Dove Award for praise and worship album of the year in 1997.
Throughout his ministry, Kenoly emphasized that worship was an act of service, not performance. “Doc was very intentional about one thing: he was never an artist, never an entertainer. He was a worship leader,” Miranda wrote. He often taught that a worship leader’s role was to guide people into the presence of Jesus Christ, grounding worship in gratitude for what Christ has already done.
In 1985, Kenoly joined Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, where he served as worship leader and later music pastor. Ordained in 1987, he devoted himself to teaching the theology of worship and consulting churches nationwide. He frequently stressed the need for balance between heartfelt praise and sound biblical teaching, drawing from Jesus’ call to worship in Spirit and in truth.
Kenoly also pursued higher education, earning degrees in music and theology, including a Doctor of Ministry in sacred music. In 1999, he moved to Central Florida and continued traveling internationally as a worship leader, teacher and author.
In February 1994, he graced the cover of Charisma magazine, sharing his insight into praise and worship and encouraging believers to enter into the presence of God with reverence and joy.
Miranda reflected on Kenoly’s life both on and off the stage, noting that the same integrity and humility marked his private walk with God. “Today we grieve deeply but not without hope,” he wrote. “The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds.”
Kenoly is survived by his family. Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
